Echocardiography

Echocardiography, also known as an echo test, is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses ultrasound waves to create detailed images of the heart. It allows the doctors to assess the structure and function of the heart, including the chambers, valves and blood flow. Echocardiography is commonly used to detect heart conditions such as valve disorders, heart failure, congenital heart defects and blood clots. It is safe, painless and typically performed by placing a handheld device called a transducer, on the chest. In some cases, the contrast agents or specialized techniques like transesophageal echocardiography may be used for clearer images.