Echocardiogram

What is an Echocardiogram?

An Echocardiogram is a type of Ultrasound that checks the structure and function of the heart. A Transthoracic Echo utilizes sound waves to create computerized outlines of the heart and its blood vessels. The Cardiologist will review images to check the various components of the heart including the chambers, valves, and blood vessels for any abnormalities.

Conditions We Diagnose with Echocardiograms:

• Abnormal electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) findings
• Problems with blood flow in the heart
• Dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), restrictive cardiomyopathy (RCM), or hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM)
• Congenital heart conditions such as:
• Atrial septal defect (ASD)
• Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA)
• Tetralogy of Fallot (TOF)
• Ventricle septal defect (VSD)
• Congestive heart failure (CHF)
• Abnormal ejection fraction
• Endocarditis, an inflammation of the inner layer of the heart
• Heart murmur, which can indicate aortic stenosis, aortic regurgitation, mitral stenosis, or mitral regurgitation
• Structural abnormalities of the heart