Transthoracic Echocardiography Procedure

A standard echocardiogram is called a transthoracic echocardiogram and is performed from outside of the chest wall. This test allows for visualization of the heart pump function and valves.

The ultrasound room is typically dimly lit and will contain an examination table or bed and an ultrasound machine. You may be asked a few questions by the sonographer who will want to know why you are having the test, if you have had previous tests, and if you have ever had a heart problem. Usually a brief explanation of the procedure will be given as well. You will asked to put on a gown and ECG patches applied. You will typically lie on your left side. The sonographer will place a gel on your skin, then place a small wand called a transducer onto your chest. The transducer sends out the sound waves to the heart and receives the returning signals. The machine will generate the pictures of the heart. Aside from the applied pressure from the transducer, there should be no pain.

Ultrasound waves used in performing the echocardiogram cannot be heard by the human ear, so you will not hear the sound waves as they exit or return to the machine. The heart and valves will appear as a moving objects on the screen. During the exam, you will notice the sonographer will place marks on the screen with small computer calipers as a way to perform various measurements of the size, function and blood flow of the heart. Blood movement or flow within the heart. will appear as different colors moving within the white and black images on the monitor. The different colors represent the varying speed and direction of blood flow within the heart. An audio signal may be applied to blood flow within the heart which can be heard as a whooshing sound.

The procedure takes approximately 45 minutes to complete. Occasionally, an IV catheter will need to be placed for either a bubble test or to make the pictures look better.  A bubble test involves injecting a small amount of salt water into a vein. This test helps to detect holes in the heart. Occasionally, an echo-enhancing agent called Definity™ is injected to make the heart walls more visible

The sonographer may also perform 3D heart ultrasound which provides your doctor with moving images of your heart and takes excellent pictures that will help your doctor evaluate your heart health. 3D Heart Ultrasound uses the same technology that is used for standard ultrasound. This procedure may add time to the procedure but carries no additional risk.