A procedure that uses ultrasonic waves
(much like a sonogram) that is directed over the chest wall to
obtain images of the heart. These images show the heart's
position, motion of the walls of the heart and the interior chambers
and valves of the heart. The echocardiogram can also show blood flow
with in the chambers of the heart. This can help you cardiologist
help determine if the heart valves are functioning properly or if
there is an abnormal communication or flow between the chambers or
the major blood vessels.
Echocardiographic
Cardiac Images can help your
cardiologist determine many things about your heart. Your doctor may
perform an echocardiogram to:
-
Assess the function of
your heart.
-
Help diagnosis many different
types of heart disease.
-
Help determine the progression
or stability of many types of valvular disease.
-
Assess the pumping function of
the heart.
-
Evaluate the effectiveness of
surgical or medical cardiac treatments which a patient has
under-gone.
Special types of Echocardiograms can be
performed to help assess certain cardiac conditions. One such type
is a Transesophageal Echocardiogram or
TEE.
With a standard transthoracic
echocardiogram the transducer is moved across the chest to
obtain different views of the heart. With a transesophageal
echogradiogram, the transducer is placed in the esophagus (food
pipe) and cardiac images are obtained from the back of the
heart.
The results of the
echocardiogram will help you and and your physician determine
the best course of treatment.
