Echocardiography

What is echocardiography?

An echocardiogram is a type of imaging test that relies on sound waves to create representations of your internal soft tissue structures. You might also hear this test referred to as a heart ultrasound or heart sonogram.

Echocardiography is a diagnostic tool used to assess the way blood flows through your heart chambers and valves. There are several different types of echocardiograms, each of which delivers specific results. 

A transthoracic echocardiogram is the most common and focuses on blood flow through your heart. A transesophageal echocardiogram relies on a transducer placed within your esophagus to gather imaging of your heart and aorta, your body’s primary artery. 

A stress echocardiogram assesses how blood flows through your heart before and after physical exertion. If you can’t withstand physical exercise, your practitioner administers medication to temporarily prompt your heart to work harder, mimicking the effects of exercise.  

What kinds of echocardiography techniques are possible?

Echocardiography gathers imaging from your heart walls, valves, and the major arteries connected to your heart. 

A special type of imaging called Doppler echocardiography shows both the speed and direction that your blood takes as it moves through your heart and nearby blood vessels. This technique can identify blocked or leaking valves efficiently.  

Heart & Vascular Associates utlizes moden technology in assesing cardiac function using tissue doppler imaging (TDI) and strain imaging, which is extremely useful for patients undergoing chemotherapy

All of these imaging options are noninvasive, offering your provider the chance to assess your heart function without any incisions or tissue alteration. They are often among the first diagnostic tools used to determine if you have heart disease or other heart health issues. 

What is the difference between an echocardiogram and an electrocardiogram?

Echocardiography uses sound waves to create real-time imaging of your heart structure and the arteries connected to your heart. It also uses sound to assess blood flow through these structures. 

Electrocardiography assesses your heart’s electrical activity. Instead of imaging, an electrocardiogram creates a graph that shows your heart rate and rhythm. Your practitioner might recommend one or both of these tests as part of the diagnostic process. 

If you have additional questions about echocardiography, call Heart and Vascular Associates today to schedule a visit. Online booking is also an option, allowing you to book your visit from the comfort of home, any time of day.

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