An echocardiogram is a test that transmits high-frequency sound waves through a transducer that is placed on your ribs near the breast bone and directed toward the heart. The transducer picks up the echoes of the sound waves and transmits them as electrical impulses. The echocardiography machine converts these impulses into moving pictures of the heart. The picture is much more detailed than an X-ray and involves no radiation.
An echocardiogram works well for most patients. It allows the doctor to see the anatomy and blood flow in the heart while it is beating. Occasionally, the sound waves are unable to produce a clear picture of the heart due to lung, rib or body tissue interference. A nurse may administer a small amount of contrast through an IV to enhance the images of the heart.
Stress Echocardiogram:
Your health care provider may suggest doing a stress echocardiogram. This test is used to evaluate for coronary artery disease. An increased heart rate needs to be achieved either by walking on a treadmill or administering a drug called Dobutamine. Your heart rate, heart rhythm, and blood pressure will be monitored throughout the exam. Ultrasound images are obtained before and after the exercise. These images may reveal parts of the heart that are not receiving enough blood due to possible blocked arteries.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram:
Your health care provider may choose to perform a Transesophageal Echocardiogram or TEE. This exam provides an unobstructed view of the heart. During a TEE, the back of your throat is anesthetized, conscious sedation is administered and a scope is inserted down your throat. On the end of the scope is an ultrasonic device. An experienced cardiologist will guide the probe down to the lower part of the esophagus, where it is used to obtain a clearer two-dimensional echocardiogram of your heart. A nurse will monitor your heart rate, heart rhythm and blood pressure throughout the exam.
