A 2D echocardiogram, also known as a two-dimensional echocardiogram, is a non-invasive medical imaging test which uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart. The live images help the cardiologist to evaluate a wide range of heart conditions or heart diseases, providing valuable information regarding the heart’s size, shape, pumping function, thickness and movement of the heart valves.
Types:
There are several types of 2D echo that can be performed, including:
• Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE): It is one of the most common 2D echo test, in which a transducer is placed on the chest to create images of the heart from outside the body.
• Transoesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): In this test, a flexible device is inserted down the throat into the oesophagus (located behind the heart) to obtain more detailed images of the heart. It is often used when a TTE does not provide enough information.
• Stress echocardiogram: This test involves exercising on a treadmill or bike, and can be used to evaluate the heart’s response to physical activity.
• Foetal echocardiography: This is a specialised test performed during pregnancy to find out the size, structure and function of the unborn baby’s heart.
Purpose
The test helps identify a range of cardiac abnormalities, including:
• Cardiomyopathy, a condition affecting the heart muscle
• Congenital heart diseases – one or more problems with the heart’s structure that are present since birth
• Arterial blockages can lead to a heart attack and stroke
• Valve defects refer to several conditions that prevents one or more valves in the heart from working right
• Cardiac tamponade is the increase in pressure in the heart due to blood and fluid in the sac around the heart
• Aneurysm, which is the widening and weakening of a part of the heart muscle or aorta.
• Other defects in septal walls
You may be asked to go for an echo test if you are suffering from any heart-related ailment like cardiomyopathy, infarction, septal defects, or if you recently experienced shortness of breath accompanied by chest pain.
How is this test performed?
Before taking up the test, the patient needs to inform the doctor about their previous medical history or surgeries. The procedure takes around 10-15 minutes on average.
The procedure involves the following steps:
• The patient is asked to wear a robe that is open at the front
• A colourless echo-gel is applied to the chest area of the patient
• The patient is directed to lie on the left side, enabling the technician to move the transducer across different areas of the chest
• Electrodes are then attached to the patient’s body, and an ECG device is connected to these electrodes
• The patient is asked to breathe slow/fast, as per the requirement of the scan
• The images can be viewed on a monitor and recorded
Once the test is done, the patient can wipe the gel on their chest and remove the electrodes. There is no need for special care or rest after the test.
Is there any discomfort during the test?
The test usually causes minimal discomfort. However, when the gel is applied, there is a cooling sensation on the skin. Additionally, there might be a slight pressure sensation from the transducer as it is moves across your chest.
Disclaimer: For personalised advice and further information, always consult your doctor or qualified healthcare professional.
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