Professional medical service of echocardiography
Echocardiography is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart. It helps assess heart structure and function, diagnose conditions like heart valve issues, cardiomyopathy, and congenital heart defects, and monitor heart disease progression. There are different types, including:
- Transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE): The most common type, performed by placing a transducer on the chest.
- Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE): A more invasive procedure where a transducer is inserted down the esophagus for clearer images of the heart.
- Stress echocardiogram: Combines echocardiography with exercise or medication to evaluate heart function under stress.
Echocardiography is safe, painless, and provides valuable information to guide treatment and management of heart conditions. If you have any specific questions or need details about a particular aspect, feel free to ask!
Fetal Echocardiography
Echocardiography for unborn babies, often referred to as fetal echocardiography, is a specialized ultrasound used to examine the heart of a fetus. It is typically performed when there are concerns about potential heart defects, often identified through routine ultrasounds or family history.
Key Points about Fetal Echocardiography:
Purpose:
- To assess the structure and function of the fetal heart.
- To diagnose congenital heart defects early in pregnancy.
Timing:
- Usually performed between 18 and 24 weeks of gestation, but it can be done earlier if there are specific concerns.
Procedure:
- The procedure is similar to a standard ultrasound, using a transducer placed on the mother’s abdomen.
- It provides detailed images of the heart’s chambers, valves, and blood flow.
Benefits:
- Early detection allows for better management options, which may include planning for specialized care at birth.
- It can provide peace of mind for expecting parents.
Risks:
- Fetal echocardiography is considered safe with no known risks to the mother or baby.
Health Tips & Info
If you’re interested in specific conditions that can be detected or have questions about the process, let us know!
What is fetal echocardiography?
Fetal echocardiography is a specialized ultrasound that examines the heart of a developing fetus to assess its structure and function.
When is it performed?
It is typically done between 18 and 24 weeks of pregnancy but can be performed earlier if there are specific concerns.
Why is it needed?
It may be recommended if there are signs of potential heart defects from routine ultrasounds, family history of congenital heart defects, or maternal health issues.
Is it safe?
Is it safe?