2D echo, also known as two-dimensional echocardiography, is a widely used as a non-invasive procedure for investigating heart’s functionality. It uses high-frequency ultrasound waves to create one- and two-dimensional real-time images of the beating heart. The sound waves are generated using a transducer and the images obtained are called echocardiograms. It is a painless procedure with no side effects. However, the positioning of the transducer might cause a mild sense of discomfort for the patients.
Why is this test performed?
A 2D echo test helps the doctor to gain a better understanding of the heart. It is suggested for:
Structural Analysis: A 2D echo may be performed to know the size and shape of the heart and its chambers. It helps find out conditions such as congenital heart defects, valvular abnormalities, and the presence of any tumours or masses within the heart. For instance, high blood pressure may cause the heart to enlarge which could lead to inefficient pumping of the blood.
Functional Evaluation: This test is recommended to know how the heart is functioning. It helps find out the heart’s pumping efficiency and measure the ejection fraction, which indicates the heart’s ability to pump blood.
Blood Flow Assessment: The test can reveal the direction and speed of blood flow within the heart, providing vital information for diagnosing conditions like regurgitation and stenosis of heart valves.
Diagnosis and Monitoring: Heart attacks can significantly weaken the heart muscles, which lowers the blood supply to the heart. Stroke patients are recommended for this test to find out the location and extent of heart damage. Apart from this, it is also suggested to monitor a range of cardiac conditions, including infections affecting the heart lining.
How is this scan performed?
Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE): In this procedure, the transducer head is placed on the chest at various positions to get images of the heart. It is also called a heart ultrasound. It is a non-invasive way to look at blood flow through the heart and heart valves.
Stress echocardiography: In this test, the heart is made to beat faster by making the patient walk on the treadmill or ride a stationary bike. It helps diagnose coronary artery disease and monitor the distribution of blood supply into
the heart. Here, images are created just before the exercise and as soon as the patient finishes the exercise.
Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE): The doctor may recommend this test to look for blood clots in the heart. A small transducer attached to a flexible tube is guided from the mouth, down the throat, and into the esophagus. It helps monitor the functioning of the heart.
How do you prepare for the test?
TTE: No specific preparations are required for this test.
Stress Echocardiography: Individuals must not eat or drink anything for three before the test.
TEE: For this test, fasting may be required for several hours.
On the day of echo test, you’ll be asked to remove any jewelry or objects that might interfere with the procedure. You’ll also need to take off clothing from the waist up and wear a provided gown. For the test, you’ll lie down on a table or bed, typically on your left side, with support from a pillow or wedge behind your back. The process involves connecting you to an ECG monitor that records your heart’s electrical activity and tracks it throughout the procedure using small adhesive electrodes. The recorded ECG tracings are then synchronized with the images displayed on the echocardiogram monitor.
A warm gel will be applied ot the chest, followed by the placement of the transducer probe onto the gel. The technologist will then move the probe around to obtain the required images of your heart. To get images from various angles, the technologist will manipulate the transducer. Occasionally, you might be asked to hold your breath or take deep breaths. In some cases, for better visualisation, the technologist may introduce an IV contrast to enhance the visibility of heart chambers. Upon completing the procedure, the technologist will clean the gel from your chest and gently remove the ECG electrode pads.
Disclaimer: For personalised advice and further information, always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional.
