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Echocardiography Procedures

In simple terms, an echocardiogram refers to an ultrasound of the heart. It makes use of high frequency sound waves to capture images of the heart. This is a common procedure used by doctors to see your heart beating and to observe its structures. Images captured can help doctors detect possible irregularities in your heart valves and muscles. There are several types of echocardiograms which can be performed to provide more information about your current state of health. Most echocardiogram procedures take approximately 30 minutes.

  1. Transthoracic and Transesophageal

    • A transthoracic echocardiogram is a type of non-invasive test used to detect any abnormalities in the heart valves or muscles. The technician will first slide the transducer on your chest, over your heart. This is the basic or standard echocardiogram type. This procedure also records the size, shape and motion of your heart muscles.

      The transesophageal echocardiography or TEE is performed by first threading a special type of transducer called the ultrasound camera which is passed through the mouth and then into the throat. This procedure is done under general anesthesia. During a standard type of echocardiogram, factors such as emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) or obesity can interfere with the procedure's ability to detect tears, blood clots or mitral valve disease.

    Stress and Dobutamine

    • Stess echocardiogram is done while you are performing exercise activities such as running on a treadmill or pedaling on a stationary bicycle. The procedure is performed before and after the exercise. This test is conducted to collect valuable information on your hearts' pumping action and the motion of the heart muscles in its walls.

      The dobutamine, also referred to as adenosine or sestamibi stress echocardiogram, is performed to detect any heart and valve dysfunction. This echocardiogram type is performed should you be unable to exercise. During this procedure the doctor injects a stimulant in your heart to make it beat as though you are doing an exercise.

    Intravascular, Fetal, and 2D/3D

    • The intravascular echocardiogram type is used for the evaluation of heart arteries to check any blockages. This is done by threading a transducer from a catheter into the heart.

      Fetal echocardiogram, on the other hand, is used to detect heart problems in an unborn baby.

      A 2D echocardiogram is used for detecting problems involving the heart valves, abnormality in the heart's pumping action or thickened muscles. 3D type provides a more enhanced heart image. It provides information on heart size and movement in heart walls.

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