What is 3D echocardiography (echocardiogram)?

By Cristiano Antonino On Mar 9, 2023

Echocardiography is a method by which the heart and blood flow through the valves are studied using ultrasound

Unlike the radiation used in radiology, ultrasound is harmless, so no precautions are necessary and the test can be performed on any patient countless times (even in pregnant women).

What is 3D echocardiography used for?

3D echocardiography allows a better overall assessment of the heart, which is particularly useful in the case of valve diseases (especially mitral valve) and interatrial defects.

Who can perform 3D echocardiography?

There are no particular contraindications to echocardiography: anyone can undergo the test.

How does 3D echocardiography work?

The patient must lie bare-chested on the sonographer’s couch, who will place electrodes on his chest.

Then the sonographer will spread a special gel on the patient’s chest and on the transducer, a probe which, when placed on the chest, emits ultrasound which, reflected and processed by the equipment, makes it possible to visualise the heart and its structures.

The probe is moved over the chest with gentle pressure.

The patient may be asked to remain still or breathe deeply.

At the end of the test, the electrodes will be removed and all that remains is to wipe off the gel left on the chest.

The total duration of the test is approximately 10-15 minutes.