Echocardiography (or echocardiogram) is a painless, risk-free ultrasound-based imaging method used to evaluate the structure and function of the heart. During an echocardiogram, a small device (transducer) placed on the chest sends sound waves that create moving images of the heart. These echocardiogram images provide doctors with important information about the heart’s chambers, valves, walls, and pumping function.
An echocardiogram is frequently preferred in cases of chest pain, shortness of breath, heart murmurs, irregular heartbeats, or suspected heart attack. It is also very effective in detecting conditions such as heart valve diseases, congenital heart anomalies, heart muscle damage, and fluid accumulation around the heart. The echocardiogram procedure usually takes 30-45 minutes; after gel is applied to the chest, the ultrasound probe is moved across the chest.
No special preparation is required before an echocardiogram; fasting or discontinuing medications is not mandatory. The patient is generally asked to lie in a side-lying position, and mechanical sounds from the ultrasound device may be heard during this time. In some cases, contrast material may be used intravenously to obtain clearer images of the heart with the echocardiogram. Echocardiogram results are usually evaluated on the same day, and the doctor shares the findings with the patient.
What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a painless, safe imaging technique that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to evaluate the structure and functions of the heart. This examination, which images the chambers, valves, walls, major vessels of the heart, and blood flow in real-time, is one of the most valuable tools in the diagnosis, monitoring, and treatment planning of heart diseases.
With an echocardiogram, the size, shape, pumping function of the heart, valve movements, and abnormal structures within the heart can be examined in detail. This ultrasound-based method can be safely used in all age groups, pregnant women, and for repeated examinations since it does not contain X-rays or radiation.
What is an Echocardiogram Used For?
An echocardiogram is used to evaluate the structure and function of the heart in detail. It plays an important role in the diagnosis and follow-up of many heart diseases by examining the dimensions of the heart chambers, wall thickness, contraction strength of the heart, valve functions, and blood flow in the heart.
- Detects heart valve diseases (stenosis, regurgitation)
- Evaluates the strength and pumping function of the heart muscle (important for heart failure diagnosis)
- Shows whether the heart chambers have dilated
- Can detect conditions such as blood clots, tumors, or infections in the heart
- Used in the diagnosis of congenital heart diseases
- Shows conditions such as pericardial effusion (fluid accumulation around the heart membrane) or pericarditis
What Are the Types of Echocardiograms?
An echocardiogram can be performed using various methods:
Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)
A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) is the most common echocardiography method performed through the chest wall. It is performed by placing an ultrasound probe on the rib cage. It provides important information about the basic structures of the heart, heart valves, chambers, and heart functions. It does not require anesthesia, and the patient can have this test as an outpatient.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is an advanced technique performed through the esophagus, allowing a much closer look at the heart. A special probe is placed in the esophagus to provide detailed imaging of the posterior structures of the heart. It is particularly preferred in evaluating heart valve diseases, the presence of clots, and congenital heart diseases. Local anesthesia is applied to the throat area before the procedure.
Stress Echocardiogram
A stress echocardiogram is a special type of echocardiogram performed during stimulation of the heart with exercise or medication. It is used to evaluate the behavior of the heart muscle under stress. It plays an important role in the diagnosis of coronary artery disease, detection of narrowing in heart vessels, and assessment of heart muscle viability. During the test, the patient either walks on a treadmill or medications that speed up the heart are used.
3D Echocardiogram
3D echocardiography is one of the most modern echocardiogram techniques. It provides more detailed examination of heart structures by creating three-dimensional, real-time images of the heart. It provides a great advantage especially in evaluating heart valve diseases, diagnosing congenital heart diseases, and planning before heart surgery. It provides more comprehensive information compared to traditional two-dimensional imaging.
Contrast Echocardiogram
A contrast echocardiogram is an advanced echocardiography method performed by administering special contrast agents intravenously. This technique allows clearer imaging of the heart chambers and walls. It is particularly used in evaluating blood flow in the heart wall, detecting masses within the heart, and determining the viability of heart muscle. Thanks to the use of contrast material, structures that cannot be seen clearly on standard echocardiography can be evaluated better.
How Safe is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a radiation-free, painless, and safe imaging method. Since the structure and functions of the heart are examined using ultrasound waves, it has no harmful effects on the body.
Important points regarding its safety:
- Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE): Standard echocardiography performed through the chest wall is completely safe and has no side effects.
- Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): This is a detailed examination method performed by inserting a thin probe into the esophagus. Mild sedation may be applied, and temporary side effects such as throat irritation may rarely be seen.
- Stress echocardiogram: This is a test performed by speeding up the heart with effort or medication. Blood pressure changes or a feeling of palpitations may rarely occur due to the medications used.
- 3D echocardiogram: It provides three-dimensional imaging of the heart and valves. It is safe like a standard echocardiogram and does not carry any extra risk.
- Contrast echocardiogram: It allows clearer imaging of the internal structures of the heart thanks to a special contrast agent given intravenously. The risk of allergic reaction to contrast agents is very low.
In general, an echocardiogram is an extremely safe test and can be safely applied to all age groups.
How is an Echocardiogram Performed?
A standard (transthoracic) echocardiogram is performed while the patient is lying on their side, without requiring anesthesia. Sound waves are sent to the heart using an ultrasound device, and the internal structure of the heart is imaged by the return of these waves. The procedure is generally painless, and patients are comfortable during the procedure. During a transesophageal echocardiogram, local anesthesia is applied to the throat.
How Are Echocardiogram Results Interpreted?
Echocardiogram results are evaluated by a specialist cardiologist. The results show the structural and functional status of the heart and guide the patient’s treatment process. Early detection of conditions requiring treatment provides an opportunity for more effective intervention.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does an Echocardiogram Examine?
An echocardiogram evaluates the condition of heart valves, the contraction strength of the heart muscle, the structures between heart chambers, and blood flow within the heart. Additionally, it can examine whether there are clots in the heart or the structural condition of the major vessels.
What is the Difference Between an ECG and an Echocardiogram?
An ECG records the electrical activity of the heart and detects rhythm disturbances. An echocardiogram, on the other hand, images the structure and functions of the heart with ultrasound, evaluating the health of heart valves and muscles.
Are Echocardiogram Results Available Immediately?
Images are obtained instantly after the test is completed, but a cardiologist’s evaluation may be required for detailed interpretation. Results can generally be obtained on the same day.
Should I Fast Before an Echocardiogram?
Fasting is not required for a transthoracic echocardiogram. However, the stomach should be empty before a transesophageal echocardiogram, so fasting for at least 6 hours is recommended.
How is an Echocardiogram Performed on Women?
The standard procedure is also applied to female patients. It can be safely performed in special situations such as pregnancy because it does not contain radiation. Since the ultrasound probe will be placed on the chest area, removing the bra may be necessary. A special gown may be provided by the hospital for the patient’s comfort.
Can a Heart Attack Be Detected With an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram evaluates the structural and functional status of the heart but is not used to directly diagnose a heart attack. It can detect damage to the heart muscle in a patient who has had a heart attack.
Reference: Echocardiogram
