Name of the Procedure:

Echocardiography, transthoracic, real-time with image documentation (2D), includes M-mode recording, when performed, follow-up or limited study.
Common name(s): Echocardiogram, 2D Echo, Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)

Summary

An echocardiogram is a non-invasive imaging test that uses ultrasound waves to create real-time images of the heart. This procedure helps in evaluating the heart's function and structures, including its chambers, valves, and blood flow.

Purpose

• To assess heart function and diagnose conditions such as heart failure, valve disorders, and congenital heart defects.
• To monitor known heart conditions and evaluate the effectiveness of ongoing treatments.
• Provide detailed images to help guide decision-making for further interventions if necessary.

Indications

• Symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats.
• History of heart disease or risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, or family history of heart conditions.
• Follow-up for known heart conditions or after heart surgery.

Preparation

• Typically, no special preparation like fasting is required.
• Wear comfortable clothing as you may need to change into a hospital gown.
• Inform your doctor about all medications and any medical conditions.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on an examination table.
2. A technician applies a gel to the chest to improve ultrasound wave transmission.
3. A handheld device called a transducer is moved over the chest area to capture images.
4. The transducer sends and receives ultrasound waves, which are transformed into real-time images by the machine.
5. The technician may ask the patient to change positions or hold their breath for better imaging.
6. The two-dimensional (2D) images and M-mode recordings are documented for further analysis.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is usually performed in a hospital's outpatient imaging department, a cardiology clinic, or a specialized medical center.

Personnel

• A trained ultrasound technician or sonographer performs the echocardiogram.
• A cardiologist interprets the results and provides a diagnosis.

Risks and Complications

• It is a very low-risk procedure with minimal complications.
• Rarely, the patient might experience slight discomfort from the transducer pressure.

Benefits

• Provides valuable information about heart structure and function.
• Helps in early diagnosis and timely management of heart conditions.
• Non-invasive and painless with no radiation exposure.

Recovery

• No specific post-procedure care is required.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss findings.

Alternatives

• Other imaging tests like Cardiac MRI, CT angiography, or Nuclear Stress Test.
• Each alternative has its own set of pros and cons, including varying levels of invasiveness, detail of information provided, and potential exposure to radiation.

Patient Experience

• Patients typically feel minimal discomfort, only the cold gel and slight pressure from the transducer.
• The procedure is generally painless and non-intrusive.
• In case of any discomfort, pain management or comfort measures can be discussed with the technician.