At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our cardiac department offers echocardiography, a vital diagnostic tool used to assess heart health and detect various cardiac conditions. Echocardiography, commonly referred to as an “echo,” utilizes sound waves to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function, aiding cardiologists in diagnosing and managing heart-related issues effectively.

Test Overview:

During an echocardiogram, a specialized technician called a sonographer performs the procedure using a transducer device. This device emits high-frequency sound waves that penetrate the chest wall and bounce off the heart’s structures, generating real-time images displayed on a computer monitor.

There are different types of echocardiography:

• Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE): This is the most common type, where the transducer is placed on the chest to capture images of the heart’s chambers, valves, and blood flow.
• Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE): In this procedure, a transducer is inserted into the esophagus to obtain clearer images of the heart, especially the structures behind the breastbone.
• Stress Echocardiogram: This test combines echocardiography with physical stress induced by exercise or medication to assess heart function during increased activity.
• Abnormalities: Any deviations from the normal ECG pattern that may indicate underlying heart conditions or abnormalities.

Indications for Echocardiography:

Echocardiography is recommended for various reasons, including:

• Assessing heart structure and function.
• Evaluating heart valve abnormalities.
• Detecting and monitoring congenital heart defects.
• Diagnosing heart conditions like heart failure or cardiomyopathy.
• Assessing coronary artery disease.

Procedure:

During a TTE, the patient lies on an examination table while the sonographer applies gel to the chest and moves the transducer to capture images from different angles. TEE involves inserting the transducer into the esophagus after sedation, while stress echocardiography combines echocardiography with stress-inducing activities.

Interpretation and results:

Following the echocardiogram, a cardiologist interprets the images to assess heart health. The findings help guide further diagnostic tests or treatment plans. Common findings may include normal heart structure, valve abnormalities, or evidence of heart disease.

At SHIFAA PAN African Hospital, our experienced cardiology team utilizes advanced echocardiography technology to provide accurate assessments of heart health. If you require an echocardiogram, we encourage you to schedule an appointment for expert cardiac care and support.