What does an ultrasound of the heart show?
Left ventricular ejection fraction is a key indicator of pumping function (normal is above 50–55%); zones of reduced contractility indicate a previous heart attack or ischemia, wall hypertrophy indicates a hypertensive heart or cardiomyopathy. Doppler evaluates valves: stenosis and insufficiency with their degree, which determines the timing of surgery for defects. Dilatation of the aorta and atria (risk of fibrillation), pulmonary hypertension, blood clots, fluid in the pericardium, and congenital septal defects are also detected. With the conclusion of EchoCG, the cardiologist selects and controls treatment; The study is safe and repeatable over time.
Indications
- shortness of breath, pain in the heart area, palpitations, swelling;
- hypertension - left ventricular hypertrophy and function;
- heart murmurs, valve defects - diagnosis and control;
- previous heart attack, heart failure - ejection fraction;
- examination before operations and during medical examination.
Why ultrasound
Ultrasound is a safe imaging method without radiation: suitable for children, pregnant women and for repeated monitoring. The doctor sees organs in real time, assesses their structure, size and blood flow (in Doppler mode), and a conclusion with measurements is issued immediately after the study. The information content depends on the training and experience of the specialist; In the clinics below, ultrasound examinations are performed by ultrasound diagnostic doctors using expert-class devices.
