March 14, 2024 Author: Lígia Mendes What is an echocardiogram? An echocardiogram is an exam that allows to observe the heart and its movement in real time. The technology is similar to that of a sonar. The echocardiography equipment has a probe that uses sound waves that are reflected by cardiac structures which have different densities. The echocardiograph interprets the information received, transforming it into real-time images that are viewed by the doctor on the equipment's monitor. The most common two-dimensional echocardiogram only gives information about the cardiac anatomy, the contraction of the ventricles and the movement of the valves. To determine whether or not the objective changes have clinical relevance, a Dopler study is necessary. There are several types of Doppler and they all study velocity of blood flow: Pulsed and continuous Doppler assess blood velocity and are essential to determine and classify valve disease, whether obstruction or insufficiency. Color flow Doppler evaluates the distribution of velocity in the blood and is essential for evaluating valve insufficiencies and anomalous communications between the systemic and pulmonary circulation. Tissue Doppler assesses the speed of cardiac contraction and relaxation, determining more subtle cardiac changes, thus allowing the diagnosis of the disease at an earlier stage. What is a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE)? Resting transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the most common type of echocardiogram. This is a painless and non-invasive exam. It allows obtaining morphological and functional information about the cardiac chambers (atria and ventricles), valves and heart walls, under basal conditions of rest in the lying position. How is a resting transthoracic echocardiogram performed? The transthoracic echocardiogram is performed with the patient lying on their left side, naked from the waist up. A gel is applied to the chest, where the ultrasound transducer is then placed. This transducer emits sound waves and receives them, allowing images to be created by the software that can be interpreted by the doctor. During the echocardiogram, electrical monitoring is important to accurately determine the different phases of the cardiac cycle and better interpret the movements displayed on the monitor. To capture electrical activity, electrodes are placed on the chest or back. During the transthoracic echocardiogram at rest, the transducer is moved over the chest wall, and some pressure may be necessary. The patient may also be asked to change position or perform specific breathing movements. Main types of resting transthoracic echocardiography: 2D M-Mode echocardiogram: assesses the morphology and movement of cardiac structures; 2D M-Mode echocardiogram with Doppler study: in addition to cardiac morphology and function, it assesses blood velocities and cardiac muscle movement. In what situations is a resting transthoracic echocardiogram performed? The decision about carrying out any medical exam is always made by the doctor, depending on the individual characteristics of each patient and their complaints or illness. As a rule, resting transthoracic echocardiography can be indicated to assess if morphological and/or functional cardiac changes exist that may be related to complaints reported. How long does a resting transthoracic echocardiogram take? Performing a transthoracic echocardiogram takes a minimum and maximum duration of around 20 minutes and 1 hour, respectively. What limitations does a resting transthoracic echocardiogram have? Transthoracic echocardiography is a technique that can miss lesions and diagnoses, even with a technically adequate examination. Are there any side effects, risks or complications associated with performing a resting transthoracic echocardiogram? Resting transthoracic echocardiography has no side effects, risks or complications. In the hospitals and clinics of the Hospital da Luz network, you can find cardiologists who are specialized in the diagnosis and treatment of heart diseases. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
