Echocardiography

What it is

Echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) is a non-invasive diagnostic method that visualizes the heart's chambers, valves, muscle walls, and blood flow in real time. The examination does not use X-ray radiation, is completely painless, and requires no incisions or injections.

Why it is performed

Echocardiography evaluates the function of the heart valves (stenosis, insufficiency), the contractile ability of the myocardium, chamber sizes, and ejection fraction (the percentage of blood the heart pumps out with each contraction). These indicators play a key role in detecting heart failure, valve diseases, cardiomyopathies, and other structural changes.

How it is performed

The patient lies comfortably on an examination table, a special gel is applied to the chest, and an ultrasound probe is moved across the chest to capture images of the heart from various angles. The examination usually takes 20-30 minutes and causes no discomfort to the patient.

Who may be recommended this examination

A physician may recommend this examination to patients with heart murmurs, shortness of breath, chest pain, changes in heart rhythm, arterial hypertension, suspected heart failure, or those requiring regular cardiac monitoring.

Preparation

Echocardiography usually requires no special preparation — there is no need to fast or follow a diet beforehand. Comfortable clothing is sufficient.

Results

The results of the examination are typically interpreted by a cardiologist immediately after the procedure, and the findings are used to determine further treatment strategy.