Echocardiogram Specialist

What is an echocardiogram?

An echocardiogram is a noninvasive test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create pictures of your heart.

An echocardiogram provides information about your heart, such as its:

• Movements
• Size and shape
• Pumping strength
• Valve function

This noninvasive test is painless and requires no downtime. There’s nothing you need to do ahead of time to prepare for your test.

Why would I need an echocardiogram?

Perloff Cardiovascular Care offers on-site echocardiograms to diagnose unexplained symptoms that affect your heart health. Dr. Perloff may also request an echocardiogram to evaluate how well your heart is functioning.

You might also need an echocardiogram to identify stenosis (narrowing) in your heart valves, blood clots, or regurgitation, a leakage of blood from your heart valves.

What happens during an echocardiogram?

During an echocardiogram, you lie comfortably on an exam table. Dr. Perloff places small electrodes on your chest that connect to an electrocardiography device. This technology monitors your heartbeat throughout your echocardiogram.

Next, he applies gel over your chest before placing a handheld transducer. The gel prevents friction, so the transducer can glide smoothly over the surface of your skin.

The transducer delivers sound waves into your body, and they bounce off your internal structures and create images of your heart. The technology sends the images to an external monitor that Dr. Perloff watches during your test.

An echocardiogram typically lasts less than 30 minutes, and you can resume your usual activities after your appointment.

How long does it take to get the results of an echocardiogram?

Because the images of your heart are immediately available during an echocardiogram, Dr. Perloff is able to discuss your results during your same appointment.

If your test shows you have a heart blockage, valve damage, or other condition that requires treatment, he customizes a plan to your individual needs. Depending on the condition you have, you might need conservative treatments like medications or diet and lifestyle changes.

Dr. Perloff may also suggest surgery if you have urgent issues that affect the long-term health of your heart.

To find out more about the benefits of on-site echocardiogram testing, call Perloff Cardiovascular Care or book a consultation online today.