Echocardiography, also called a cardiac echo or echo, is a sonogram of the heart. Echocardiography uses two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and Doppler ultrasound to create images of the heart.
There are several types of echocardiography.
Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)
This test uses ultrasound to make detailed images of the heart and the arteries leading to and from it. Unlike TTE, TEE requires a thin tube that passes through the mouth, down the throat and into the esophagus to obtain the clearest of images. A sedative is typically administered to keep the patient calm. TEE is commonly used to detect any abnormal tissue, blood clots, or how well the heart is pumping.
Transthoracic Echocardiography (TTE)
Transthoracic echocardiography, also called a “cardiac echo,” is a sonogram (ultrasound) of the heart. This technique uses ultrasound waves to create images and movies of the heart while it is contracting. Echocardiography uses two-dimensional, three-dimensional, and Doppler ultrasound to create detailed images that allow for the evaluation of the cardiac chambers and valves.