To evaluate the function of the heart muscle and heart valves, and to detect excessive fluid in the pericardium, the membrane that surrounds the heart. As a technician passes an ultrasound transducer over the heart, the echoed sound waves create an image that can be viewed on a monitor and also recorded on paper or tape. Preparation You remove your clothing and jewelry above the waist, and recline on an examination table. Gel is applied to your chest to help conduct the sound waves. As you lie on the examining table, the tester guides the transducer probe, shaped like a pencil or microphone, over specific areas of your chest.
Slight pressure is applied between the skin and transducer.
From time to time, you may be asked to assume a different position. As the transducer passes over the skin, it emits high-frequency, inaudible sound waves used to create images of internal organs and indicate the flow of blood to various parts of the heart. Variations Doppler ultrasound , in which a special microphone is used to measure the velocity of blood flow in different parts of the heart. This provides a better picture of the state of the coronary arteries than an echocardiogram done during rest. If you are unable to exercise, a drug can be used to increase blood flow, mimicking what happens during exercise.