As a medical professional with expertise in diagnostic imaging, I can explain what an ultrasound of the heart, also known as an echocardiogram, reveals. An echocardiogram is a non-invasive test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the heart's structure and function. Here's what it can show:


1. Size and Shape: It assesses the overall size and shape of the heart, including the chambers and valves.

2. Heart Valves: The test can evaluate the function of the heart valves, determining if they are open or closed properly and if there is any stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage).

3. Heart Muscle: It provides information about the heart muscle, including the thickness and motion of the walls of the ventricles and atria.

4. Blood Flow: The test can measure the direction and speed of blood flow through the heart, identifying any abnormalities.

5. Cardiac Function: It evaluates the heart's pumping function, including ejection fraction, which is a measure of how much blood the heart pumps out with each beat.

6. Congenital Heart Disease: In children, it can help diagnose congenital heart defects.
7.
Cardiac Masses: It can detect the presence of any masses or growths within the heart, such as tumors or blood clots.
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Pericardium: The test can show the condition of the pericardium, the sac-like membrane surrounding the heart.

An echocardiogram is a valuable tool for diagnosing and managing a variety of heart conditions, from congenital heart defects to coronary artery disease.

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Echocardiography (echo) shows the size, structure, and movement of various parts of your heart. These parts include the heart valves, the septum (the wall separating the right and left heart chambers), and the walls of the heart chambers. Doppler ultrasound shows the movement of blood through your heart.read more >>