What is a heart?

Cardiac is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture the structure and function of the heart. Not only is this test safe, but it also provides real-time images to help doctors accurately assess heart health. Depending on the method of examination, the heart is mainly divided into the following types:

Transthoracic Ultrasound (TTE)

Transthoracic ultrasound is the most common type of heart in which an ultrasound probe is placed in the patient's chest to create an image of the heart through the reflection of sound waves. This test does not require incisions or invasive procedures and is suitable for most patients, especially those who are new to cardiac examinations.超聲波掃描

Transesophageal ultrasound (TEE)

Transesophageal ultrasound is a more delicate test for situations where clearer images are required. During the examination, the doctor scans a small probe through the esophagus of a person close to the heart. This method avoids interference from the chest wall and provides high-resolution images that are often used in the diagnosis of valvular heart disease and infective endocarditis.

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Stress usually occurs when the patient is exercising or using medications that induce an increase in the load on the heart and is intended to assess the health of the heart under stress. This test is especially useful for diagnosing coronary artery disease and myocardial ischemia, and can detect stents that may be overlooked.超聲波檢查

In Hong Kong, cardiac ultrasound scans have become a routine tool in the diagnosis of heart disease. According to the Hong Kong Health Department, more than 100,000 cardiac ultrasonography are performed each year, with transthoracic ultrasound accounting for the majority and transesophageal ultrasound accounting for about 15%.

Use of ultrasound cardiac scans

Cardiac ultrasound scans have a wide range of applications, from initial assessment to diagnosis of complex diseases. Its main uses include:

• Assesses the structure and function of the heart.An ultrasound scan can give a clear picture of the size, shape, and movement of the heart, so doctors can help determine if the heart is functioning properly.
• Diagnosis of valvular heart disease, cardiomyopathy, pericardial effusion, etc.:Through ultrasound imaging, doctors can diagnose related disorders by observing how the heart valves open and close, the thickness of the heart muscle, and whether there is fluid in the pericardium.
• Monitoring recovery after cardiac surgery:People who have undergone heart surgery can monitor the effectiveness of the surgery and the recovery of the heart with regular ultrasounds.

Ultrasonography is also often used to evaluate rare diseases such as congenital heart disease and heart tumors. Compared to other imaging tests, ultrasound scans do not use radiation and are suitable for pregnant women and children.

The procedure for an ultrasound scan of the heart

The process of ultrasound cardiac scanning is usually divided into three stages: preparation before the examination, posture during the examination, and the use of an ultrasound probe. The detailed steps are as follows:

Preparation before the exam

Before undergoing an Echo Heart Scan, people usually don't need to prepare anything. In the case of transesophageal ultrasound, it is necessary to fast for 6-8 hours to avoid vomiting during the examination. Your doctor will likely ask you about your medical history and explain the test procedure and precautions.

Posture at the time of examination

During the examination, the patient is usually asked to lie flat on the table and adjust the position as directed by the doctor. For example, the location of the left-lateral pressure ulcer allows the heart to be brought closer to the chest wall, and a clear image can be captured with an ultrasound probe.

Using Ultrasonic Probes

The doctor applies a layer of gel to the patient's chest to reduce friction between the probe and the skin and ensure smooth sound wave conduction. The probe moves to different positions to obtain a multi-angle image of the heart. The whole procedure usually lasts 20-30 minutes, and the patient does not feel discomfort.

What heart problems can be detected with an ultrasound scan?

Ultrasound scans can detect a variety of heart problems, but the most common ones are:

• Heart valve stenosis or reflux disease:Ultrasound images can show whether the valves are opening and closing properly and whether there is a backflow of blood.
• Hypertrophy or hypertrophy of the heart muscle:By measuring the thickness of the heart muscle and the size of the heart chambers, the doctor can determine if there is a problem with an enlarged or enlarged heart muscle.
• Membrane fluid:Ultrasound can detect abnormal fluid accumulation in the pericardial cavity, which can be a sign of pericarditis.
• Congenital heart disease:Ultrasonography is particularly useful in diagnosing congenital heart disease, especially in infants and young children.

According to the Hong Kong Society of Cardiology, about 30% of cardiac ultrasonography shows varying degrees of valve problems, of which about 15% suffer from myocardial hypertrophy.

Interpretation of the results of the super cardiac scan

The results of an ultrasound scan of the heart are usually interpreted by a cardiologist and discussed with the patient. There are a few things to keep in mind when interpreting the test results.

Discuss the test results with your doctor

Based on the data from the ultrasound images, the doctor explains to the patient whether the heart is functioning structurally properly. If there are any unusual findings, your doctor will explain the severity of the problem and the possible impact.

Understand the importance of test results

Patients should be aware of the clinical significance of the findings, including the grade of valvular regurgitation and the extent of myocardial hypertrophy. This information helps the patient participate in subsequent treatment decisions.

Follow-up treatment options

Depending on the test results, your doctor may recommend medication, lifestyle changes, or further tests (such as cardiac catheterization). In severe cases, surgical interventions such as valve repair or replacement may be required.

In conclusion, an ultrasound scan is a very important diagnostic tool that helps doctors and patients get a complete picture of their heart health. Ultrasound scanning, ultrasound, etc., these techniques play an integral role in modern medicine.

Posted by: eleanoref at 01:19 AM | No Comments | Add Comment
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