An echocardiogram is a non-invasive diagnostic test used to evaluate the structure and function of the heart. It utilizes ultrasound technology to create real-time images of the heart and its chambers, valves, and blood flow patterns.

During an echocardiogram, a technician or a cardiac sonographer will place a small handheld device called a transducer on the chest, which emits high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves bounce off the heart structures and are captured by the transducer, which converts them into detailed images displayed on a monitor.

The test provides valuable information about the heart’s size, shape, and movement, as well as the function and condition of the heart valves. It can assess the pumping ability of the heart, measure the blood flow velocity, and detect abnormalities such as heart valve diseases, congenital heart defects, heart muscle abnormalities, or fluid accumulation around the heart.

Echocardiograms can be performed in different ways, including transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), where the transducer is placed on the chest; transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), where a specialized transducer is passed through the throat into the esophagus for closer imaging; or stress echocardiography, which combines an echocardiogram with exercise or medication-induced stress to evaluate heart function under stress conditions.

Echocardiograms are safe, painless, and do not involve radiation exposure. They are commonly used as a primary diagnostic tool in cardiology to assess and monitor various heart conditions, aid in treatment planning, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.