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 are the different types of echocardiogram? There are several types of echocardiogram: Resting transthoracic echocardiogram (two-dimensional / M-mode with or without Doppler); Transesophageal echocardiogram ; Pharmacological stress echocardiogram ; Exercise stress echocardiogram . Resting transthoracic echocardiogram It is indicated whenever a patient reports cardiovascular complaints, such as tiredness, shortness of breath or fainting or if the doctor hears a heart murmur during the objective examination. Transesophageal echocardiogram Transesophageal echocardiography, as the name suggests, uses a long probe that is introduced into the esophagus under sedation. It is used to evaluate in detail the most posterior structures and those that are poorly visualized by transthoracic echocardiography. It is used to study valvular diseases and investigate intracardiac thrombi after a stroke. Pharmacological stress echocardiogram Pharmacological stress echocardiography is a type of echocardiogram in which medications are administered that simulate cardiac effort (such as happens when running, in which the heart beats faster). Allows to observe how the heart behaves in extreme situations. It is used to diagnose coronary heart disease or valve disease. Exercise stress echocardiogram Exercise stress echocardiography is performed whenever it is necessary to simulate real life, such as if there is pain, fatigue or fainting during exercise. It is used not only in patients, but also in diagnosing symptoms in the athlete. 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.
