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Echocardiography

 
Echocardiography (Echo) test uses sound waves to evaluate your heart. This test is painless and visualizes the heart without radiation providing the physician with valuable information about the function and structure of heart valves, heart muscle, and surrounding tissue (pericardium). The test is performed by an Echo Tech who stores the images digitally and then is reviewed by our physician in conjunction with the patient's medical history. The test typically takes less than 30 minutes and patients are able to resume their normal activities immediately afterwards.

Transesophageal Echocardiography
Transesophageal Echocardiography Studies (TEEs) are used when echoes are unable to provide the physician with adequate information (typically for larger patients). TEEs (performed in the hospital as outpatient) involve a local anesthetic that helps reduce the discomfort associated with the test. The physician inserts a flexible tube down the throat to the esophagus enabling the physician to see the heart function from inside your chest. Since some mild sedation may be used, you should bring a family member or friend to drive you home. The test takes 30 minutes and you are typically able to go home after two or three hours.

Stress Echocardiography
Stress echocardiography is a test that uses ultrasound imaging to determine how the heart muscles respond to stress. It is mainly used to diagnose and evaluate coronary artery disease.

A stress echocardiogram includes the following steps:

• A resting echocardiogram will be done first.
• You will exercise or be given medicine until you reach the target heart  rate. This helps reveal how your heart works when you are active.
• Your blood pressure and heart rhythm (ECG) will be monitored throughout the procedure.
• Ultrasound images will be recorded during the procedure.
• Another echocardiogram is taken immediately after your target heart rate has been reached.
• The ultrasound images will reveal any parts of the heart that may not be receiving enough blood or oxygen because of blocked arteries.
  

This test differs from an exercise stress test, which does not use ultrasound images.

If you are not able to exercise, you will receive a medication such as dobutamine through a vein (intravenous line). This type of medicine will make your heart beat faster and harder, similar to when you exercise.

The test is performed to see whether your heart muscle is getting enough blood flow and, therefore, enough oxygen when it is working hard (under stress).

Your doctor may request this test if you:

• Have new symptoms of angina or chest pain.
• Have angina that is becoming worse.
• Have recently had a heart attack.
• Are at high risk for heart disease (before having surgery or when beginning an exercise program).
• Have heart valve problems.

A stress echocardiogram is a very effective, noninvasive test that can help determine whether you have blockages in your coronary arteries. If there are blockages, it can determine the severity of the problem. Early diagnosis and monitoring of heart disease allows treatment to begin early.

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