What Are the Types of Echocardiograms?
The types of echocardiograms include: • Transthoracic echocardiogram. This is the standard echocardiogram. It is a painless test similar to X-ray, but without the radiation. The procedure uses the same technology used to evaluate a baby’s health before birth. High frequency sound waves (ultrasound) are bounced off the heart structures (using a device called a transducer) producing images and sounds that can be used by the doctor to detect heart damage and disease. • Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE). This test requires that the transducer be inserted down the throat into the esophagus (the swallowing tube that connects the mouth to the stomach.) Because the esophagus is located close to the heart, clear images of the heart structures can be obtained without the interference of the lungs and chest. • Stress echocardiogram. This is an echocardiogram that is performed while the person exercises on a treadmill or stationary bicycle. This test can accurately visualize the motion of the h
