Echocardiogram (Cardiac Ultrasound)

Procedure Overview

Echocardiogram (Cardiac Ultrasound) at Gangnam Heartscan Healthcare Center is a non-invasive, radiation-free diagnostic examination performed and interpreted by a board-certified cardiologist. Using high-frequency sound waves and Color Doppler blood-flow mapping, the examination visualizes cardiac chambers, heart valves, myocardial wall motion, and the pericardium in real time.

Clinical Indications

• Evaluation of valvular heart disease (stenosis, regurgitation, or prolapse)
• Assessment of myocardial and pericardial disease (cardiomyopathy, pericardial effusion)
• Screening for ischemic heart disease and regional wall-motion abnormalities
• Clinical evaluation for suspected infective endocarditis
• Investigation of chest discomfort, shortness of breath, heart murmurs, or unexplained fatigue

How the Screening Works

1. Positioning & ECG Lead Placement: The patient lies comfortably on the examination table while ECG electrodes monitor cardiac timing alongside ultrasound imaging.
2. Two-Dimensional & Doppler Imaging: A gel-coated transducer is gently applied to the chest wall to capture multi-angle views of the heart chambers, valves, and great vessels.
3. Cardiologist Interpretation: The cardiologist analyzes ventricular ejection fraction, diastolic filling, valve gradients, and pericardial integrity.

Preparation & Precautions

• No fasting or radiation exposure is required for a standard resting transthoracic echocardiogram.
• Wearing a two-piece outfit or easily removable top is recommended for chest access.
• Bring any prior cardiac ultrasound or ECG records if available for comparative evaluation.