Echocardiography (Heart Ultrasound)

What is Echocardiography?

Echocardiography, also called a heart ultrasound, is a diagnostic test that uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart. It allows doctors to evaluate the heart muscle, valves, and other structures for size, shape, function, and abnormalities.

Echocardiography can help detect:

• Stiff (stenotic) or leaking (regurgitant) heart valves.
• Weakened or damaged heart muscle.
• Congenital heart defects.
• Cardiac infections or complications.

It can also be used in emergency cardiac assessments or to monitor ongoing heart health.

At Cooper and Inspira Cardiac Care, our physicians use advanced equipment and software to provide a full range of cardiac studies, including echocardiography.

What to Expect During an Echocardiogram

• Preparation: A specially trained technician applies a gel to your chest.
• Imaging: A microphone-like device (transducer) is slid over the chest to create a live, moving picture of the heart.
• Positioning: You may be asked to change positions or hold your breath to capture higher-quality images from multiple angles.
• Completion: The technician records the images and sounds, which are reviewed by your doctor to assess your heart’s function.