2D / 3D echocardiography

In general, no special preparations are required for a standard echocardiography. Patients can usually eat and drink as they normally would and should continue taking their regular medications unless otherwise instructed by the doctor. However, it is important to wear comfortable clothing as you may be asked to undress to your undershirt to facilitate access to the chest area.

There are several types of echocardiography, including transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), in which a transducer is placed on the chest surface, and transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), in which a special transducer is inserted through the mouth and esophagus on a thin tube to be closer to the heart and provide more detailed images. Stress echocardiograms, performed during or after physical exertion, are another variant to assess heart function under stress.

During an echocardiography, the patient usually lies on a table. A technician applies a special gel to the chest and moves the transducer over different areas to obtain different views of the heart. The procedure is painless and usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. After the examination, the patient can resume normal activities without restrictions.

Echocardiography is considered a very reliable method for assessing heart structure and function. However, the accuracy of the results can be influenced by various factors, including the quality of the ultrasound machine, the experience of the examiner, and the specific physical condition of the patient. In some cases, it may be necessary to perform additional tests to ensure a comprehensive assessment.