Blood that flows toward the transducer appears red, while blood that flows away looks blue. They do this by generating sound waves at specific frequencies and determining how the sound waves bounce off and return to the transducer.ĭoctors can use colored doppler ultrasounds to map the direction and velocity of blood flow in the heart. Doppler ultrasoundĭoctors use doppler ultrasounds to check the flow of blood. This type of echocardiogram provides more detailed pictures of the heart compared with the traditional transthoracic echocardiogram because it gives a “close up” view of this organ. The individual will swallow the tube to insert it into the esophagus, the tube that connects the mouth and stomach, which runs behind the heart. Transesophageal echocardiogramĪ transesophageal echocardiogram uses a thinner transducer that attaches to the end of a long tube. These waves bounce off the heart and create images of the heart structures on a screen. The application of a gel to the chest helps the sound waves travel better. The device sends sound waves through the chest and into the heart. This test involves placing an ultrasound wand called a transducer on the outside of the chest, near the heart. The transthoracic echocardiogram is the most common type of echocardiogram test. Share on Pinterest All types of echocardiogram use high frequency sound waves. unusual sounds between heartbeats, known as heart murmurs.Signs and symptoms that may indicate a heart condition include: monitor how well the heart responds to different heart treatments, such as heart failure medications, artificial valves, and pacemakersĪ doctor will order an echocardiogram if they suspect that someone has heart problems.identify congenital heart abnormalities in infants and young children.

assess the pressure in the heart to diagnose a condition called pulmonary hypertension.

diagnose heart disease - including weak pumping or stiffening of the heart muscle, leaky or blocked heart valves, and chamber enlargement - in adults.

assess the reasons for an abnormal electrical test of the heart, called an electrocardiogram (EKG).

determine how well the heart is pumping blood.

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