Echocardiogram
What is an echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. The technologist providing the echocardiogram will use a transducer that uses ultrasound waves to produce an image of your heart. A small amount of gel is used as a conductor for the ultrasound waves.
An echocardiogram is a common procedure. Physicians will typically refer you for an echocardiogram to rule out any issues with the structure or function of your heart (such as problems with valves or chambers).
There are 3 types of echocardiograms which you may be referred for at the Paris Heart Clinic
1 - Transthoracic echocardiogram with colour and doppler modalities
This is a standard echocardiogram. The technologist will have you lay on your left side (if possible) while using a transducer to emit ultrasound waves into your body. The ultrasound waves echo off the blood and tissue in your heart and go back into the transducer before the computer produces a live image of your heart on the screen. When the sound waves bounce off of blood and tissue, they can change pitch. The changes in pitch (doppler signals) are used to measure the speed and direction of your blood flow.
2 - Transthoracic echocardiogram with colour and doppler modalities (with contrast)
When performing a standard echocardiogram, the technologist may have difficulty viewing your heart. This is possibly due to reasons such as small rib spaces or lung artifacts. Under such circumstances, the left ventricle (the heart’s pumping chamber) is not well visualized. The technologist or physician may recommend a small amount of contrast agent be administered intravenously in an effort to improve the images of your heart.
Preparation
Before the test
There is no preparation needed for an echocardiogram. You may eat and drink before the exam. All medication is to be taken as prescribed unless otherwise stated by your physician.
During the Echocardiogram
The technologist will begin by placing 3 electrodes onto your chest. You will then be asked (if possible) to lay on your left side. This allows for the best possible imaging of your heart. The technologist will apply a transducer on your chest with a small amount of gel. The technologist may need to apply some pressure while scanning your chest in order to get the best possible images. For some, this may be mildly uncomfortable. The technologist may also ask you to perform breathing exercises in an effort to optimize the image quality. An echocardiogram usually takes 30 minutes to complete, but may be longer or shorter depending on your condition.
For a stress echocardiogram, images will first be taken at rest. Next, you will exercise on a treadmill which increases in speed and elevation every 3 minutes in an effort to reach a target heart rate. Once your target heart rate is reached, you will be asked to quickly lay on the bed while the technologist once again takes images of your heart.
After your Echocardiogram
You may resume your daily activities unless otherwise stated by your physician. If the results of your echocardiogram warrant further investigation your physician will refer you for the appropriate testing. If your results are normal, no further testing may be required.