LAB TEST
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create pictures of the heart. The picture and information it produces is more detailed than a standard x-ray image. An echocardiogram does not expose you to radiation.
How the Test is Performed
TRANSTHORACIC ECHOCARDIOGRAM (TTE) TTE is the type of echocardiogram that most people will have. A specially trained technician called a sonographer performs the test. A heart doctor (cardiologist) interprets the results. An instrument called a transducer is placed on various locations on your chest and upper abdomen…
How to Prepare for the Test
No special steps are needed before a TTE test. If you are having a TEE, you will not be able to eat or drink for several hours before the test.
How the Test will Feel
During the test: You will need to take off your clothes from the waist up and lie on an exam table on your back. Electrodes will be placed on your chest to monitor your heart beat. A small amount of gel is spread on your chest and the transducer will be moved over your skin. You will feel a slight pressure on your…
Why the Test is Performed
This test is done to evaluate the valves and chambers of your heart and the sac around your heart (pericardium) from the outside of your body. The echocardiogram can help detect: Abnormal heart valves Congenital heart disease (abnormalities present at birth) Damage to the heart muscle from a heart attack Heart murmurs…
Normal Results
A normal echocardiogram reveals normal heart valves and chambers and normal heart wall movement.
What Abnormal Results Mean
An abnormal echocardiogram can mean many things. Some abnormalities are very minor and do not pose major risks. Other abnormalities are signs of serious heart disease. You will need more tests by a specialist in this case. It is very important to talk about the results of your echocardiogram with your provider.
Risks
There are no known risks from an external TTE test. TEE is an invasive procedure. There is some risk associated with the test. These may include: Reaction to the sedating medicines. Damage to the esophagus. This is more common if you already have a problem with your esophagus. Talk with your provider about the risks…
Considerations
Abnormal results may indicate: Heart valve disease Cardiomyopathy Pericardial effusion Other heart abnormalities This test is used to evaluate and monitor many different heart conditions.
References
Otto CM. Echocardiography. In: Goldman L, Schafer AI, eds. Goldman-Cecil Medicine . 26th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020:chap 49. Wu JC, Gillam L, Solomon SD, Bulwer B. Echocardiography. In: Libby P, Bonow RO, Mann DL, Tomaselli GF, Bhatt DL, Solomon SD, eds. Braunwald's Heart Disease: A Textbook of…
This is a summary. Read the full article at www.ucsfbenioffchildrens.org (reviewed 10/04/2023).
This page is general information and is not medical advice. It does not replace a registered doctor, and it is not a prescription or a recommendation to use any medicine or test. Prices are listed prices and may change. Always follow the advice of your doctor or pharmacist.