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Echocardiography — Basic Assessment

A primary cardiac diagnostic method that provides real-time imaging of cardiac structure and function using ultrasound.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Published:

This content is for general information; please consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Kardiyoloji department. Book Appointment →

What is Echocardiography — Basic Assessment?

Echocardiography is the most widely used non-invasive imaging method in cardiology, providing real-time assessment of cardiac anatomy and function using ultrasound. It is radiation-free and repeatable.

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is the standard initial test. M-mode, 2D, Doppler and color-flow Doppler are used to assess chamber size, wall thickness, ejection fraction, valve anatomy and function, diastolic function and pulmonary pressure.

Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) provides higher-resolution images from the esophagus. It is preferred for detecting endocarditis vegetations, left atrial thrombus, prosthetic valve assessment and perioperative monitoring.

Strain echocardiography (speckle tracking) analyzes myocardial deformation and can detect subclinical dysfunction at an early stage.

Symptoms

Echocardiography is a diagnostic tool; indications include:
Evaluation of dyspnea, palpitations and chest pain
Investigation of a heart murmur
Diagnosis and follow-up of heart failure
Assessment of valvular disease severity
Screening for post-MI complications

Risk Factors

TTE is completely safe and painless
TEE may cause throat discomfort and rare esophageal complications
Obesity and emphysema can reduce TTE image quality
Operator dependent

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Detection of a new murmur
  • Suspected heart failure or follow-up of known heart failure
  • After myocardial infarction or myocarditis

Treatment Methods

01
Echocardiography is diagnostic; treatment is based on findings
02
Initiation of heart failure therapy when low EF is detected
03
Surgical or interventional therapy for severe valvular disease
04
Pericardiocentesis decision for pericardial effusion
05
Serial echocardiography to monitor treatment response

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Kardiyoloji department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Related Health Topics

Other articles from the same department you may want to explore.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

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Hypertension is a condition in which blood pressure readings remain above 140/90 mmHg; early treatment helps prevent serious complications.

Coronary Artery Disease

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Narrowing of the coronary arteries due to atherosclerosis can cause chest pain (angina) and heart attack.

Heart Failure

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Heart failure is a chronic cardiac condition characterized by shortness of breath, leg swelling, and fatigue.

Heart Attack (Myocardial Infarction)

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A heart attack is a medical emergency; because heart muscle is lost by the minute, immediate intervention saves lives.

Atrial Fibrillation

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Atrial fibrillation is a common arrhythmia characterized by an irregular heartbeat and increased risk of stroke.

Heart Palpitations

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Palpitations are usually due to benign causes, but underlying cardiac rhythm disorders must be ruled out.

Heart Valve Diseases

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Valve stenosis or regurgitation increases the workload of the heart and, over time, can lead to heart failure.

Aortic Aneurysm

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Aortic aneurysms are often silent; early diagnosis allows treatment before rupture (a life-threatening tear).

Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.