Echocardiography

Echocardiography is a non-invasive medical test that uses sound waves to produce images of the heart. It is commonly used to diagnose and evaluate the function of the heart, as well as to detect and monitor heart conditions such as heart failure, valvular heart disease, and coronary artery disease.

During an echocardiogram, a healthcare provider will apply a gel to the patient's chest and use a small, handheld device called a transducer to send and receive sound waves. These sound waves are then translated into images of the heart, which can be viewed on a computer screen.

Echocardiography can provide valuable information about the heart, including its size and shape, the movement of its walls, and the function of its valves. It can also help detect problems with the heart's chambers, such as abnormal enlargement or thickening. In addition, echocardiography can be used to evaluate the blood flow through the heart and its major blood vessels.

Echocardiography is generally safe and well-tolerated. Overall, echocardiography is an important tool in the diagnosis and management of heart conditions. It allows healthcare providers to evaluate the heart's structure and function, detect abnormalities, and monitor the effectiveness of treatment.