Cardiac Services

Echocardiography and Doppler Utilizing Advanced Harmonic Imaging

Echocardiography is an ultrasound imaging of the heart which gives elaborate information on heart structure and function. The ultrasound part of the test which is termed "echocardiography" gives us an estimate of the function of the ventricles, the size of all four chambers of the heart, the integrity and function of all of the valves of the heart. It can also give us information of the outer wall of the heart (pericardium) and estimate abnormal fluid accumulations in this layer. Furthermore, it tells us about thickness of the heart in relationship to hypertension and valvular heart disease and the size of the aorta.

Doppler includes color flow Doppler and pulse Doppler recordings of the heart. Doppler essentially calculates the direction of flow of blood across the valves and into the chambers of the heart. Abnormal flow can be detected easily by the color flow portion of the test. Doppler interrogation is very useful to quantify either stenotic (narrow) valves or regurgitant (leaky) valves.

A new technique that is currently available utilizes advanced Harmonic Imaging for better edge detection of the heart to provide superior quality images. At Heart Specialists PC of Southern Connecticut, we have acquired this new technology on our latest equipment.

How is it performed?

Echocardiography is a simply performed technique using ultrasound gel on the chest and a probe to take pictures of the heart. The pictures are recorded in CINE form on a tape and interpreted by your cardiologist. Doppler examination is also included in this test.

It is safe?

Echocardiography and Doppler examination is a very safe test of the heart with no apparent side effects.

How should I prepare?

Echocardiography and Doppler examination of the heart needs no special preparation.

When are the results available?

Echocardiography and Doppler examination are recorded on videotape and interpreted by your cardiologist on the same day of examination. The results are communicated to your referring
physician on the following day by fax communication.