Echocardiography is one of the most important diagnostic tests in modern cardiology! In essence, it is the eyes and ears of the cardiologist, as it allows us to record the anatomy and function of the patient's heart live in real time and to check its structures one by one. It is also called Heart Triplex because it includes 3 parameters simultaneously: M-Mode, 2-dimensional echocardiography and Doppler (color, pulse and continuous).
What information do we get with the echo heart?
With the Heart Echo we check:
- The size of the heart and the thickness of its walls.
- The performance (strength) of the heart.
- The function of its valves.
- The flow of blood.
- The initial fate of the great vessels (aorta) for aneurysms.
- The presence of closed arteries of the heart.
- The response to treatment (e.g. for hypertension).
What conditions do we test for with the echo heart?
With Echo we can diagnose or rule out the presence of the following:
- Coronary artery disease (blocked arteries of the heart).
- Valve disease.
- Congenital (congenital) heart disease.
- Pulmonary hypertension (increased pressure in the lungs).
- Arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus.
- Cardiotoxicity of chemotherapeutic drugs.
- Investigation of flatulence.
- Investigation of stroke or embolic events.
- Investigation of symptoms e.g. chest pain, dyspnoea, fainting episode.
How is the test performed?
The test is painless, bloodless and completely safe. It is performed in the doctor's office at room temperature and under low light conditions for best imaging purposes. You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist and above and wear a special gown. You will then be required to lie on your left side on the examination bed. Using a special hypoallergenic gel, we place the transducer on the chest and take all the necessary images. During the examination you can see the images in live view and the doctor will explain what you are seeing.
Results?
You will be able to have a written report with the results and images of the exam along with the DVD immediately after the exam.
What preparation is needed and what are the risks of the exam?
No preparation is required for the test, which can be done at any time as needed. Due to the absence of radiation and contrast, there is absolutely no risk from the test, which can be repeated in the case of the chronically ill as many times as required.
Is combination with other tests required?
When the physician deems it necessary, he/she may ask you to undergo an additional fatigue test and/or carotid Doppler test.
What are the newest developments in echocardiography?
These are special tests such as transesophageal echo, tissue Doppler, the use of contrast media, three-dimensional (3D) echo or dynamic echocardiography using a drug (stress echo). Each of the above newer applications has special and specific indications and are not usually part of the regular annual check-up.
Dr. Phoebus Simeonidis is a Cardiologist at the Hippocrates Private Hospital in Nicosia. Για ραντεβού καλέστε στο +357 22 502241.
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