Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram is a very useful preliminary test for a number of heart disorders including cardiac arrhythmias. This test relies on soundwaves to offer real time images of the heart. Depending on the machine being used, the output can be two dimensional or even three dimensional. Specialized Doppler echocardiograms can also analyze blood moving through the heart.

Transthoracic Echocardiogram or TTE

In a Transthoracic Echocardiogram or TTE, A sonographer will perform the test non-invasively, directing soundwaves through the chest. Your cardiologist or electrophysiologist will then interpret the results.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram or TEE

If the sonographer cannot get a good picture of the chest, we may opt for a transesophageal echocardiogram or TEE during which an endoscopic probe with an ultrasound transducer is inserted down the esophagus and into the stomach. This allows your doctor to view structures of the heart and related areas that may be obstructed by bone or dense tissue.

A TTE has virtually no risk whatsoever as the procedure is non-invasive and requires no sedation. A TEE does carry with it some minor risk due to the use of sedation and potential damage to the esophagus, which is quite rare.