This content has been prepared for informational purposes to protect public health, in compliance with the regulations of the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Turkey and medical ethical rules. It does not provide any diagnosis, treatment guarantees, or specific medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare provider for the most accurate information.
Surface echocardiography (transthoracic echocardiography - TTE) is a heart ultrasound examination performed through the chest wall. It is a non-invasive and painless imaging method. This comprehensive guide covers echocardiography indications, procedure process, and evaluation parameters in detail.
What is Surface Echocardiography?#
Surface echocardiography is an imaging method that evaluates heart structure and function using ultrasound waves. It is a non-invasive and painless examination.
Echocardiography Modes:
- 2D (two-dimensional) imaging
- M-mode
- Doppler (color, pulsed, continuous)
- Tissue Doppler
Surface Echocardiography Indications#
Heart Failure#
- Ejection fraction evaluation
- Diastolic function
- Wall motion abnormalities
Valve Diseases#
- Valve stenosis
- Valve regurgitation
- Prosthetic valve evaluation
Coronary Artery Disease#
- Wall motion abnormalities
- Myocardial infarction complications
- Ventricular aneurysm
Other Indications#
- Cardiomyopathy
- Pericardial diseases
- Congenital heart diseases
- Suspected endocarditis
- Cardiac masses
How is Echocardiography Performed?#
Preparation#
- No special preparation required
- Comfortable clothing recommended
- No fasting required
Procedure Steps#
- Position: Left lateral decubitus
- Gel application: On chest wall
- Probe placement: From different windows
- Imaging: 2D, M-mode, Doppler
- Measurements: Standard measurements
- Recording: Images and video
Procedure Duration#
Total time: 20-45 minutes
Echocardiography Evaluation#
Left Ventricle#
- Ejection fraction (EF)
- Wall thicknesses
- Cavity dimensions
- Wall motions
Right Ventricle#
- TAPSE
- Right ventricle size
- Pulmonary pressure estimate
Valves#
- Morphology
- Stenosis degree
- Regurgitation degree
- Gradients
Other Structures#
- Aortic root
- Left atrium
- Pericardium
- Great vessels
Normal Values#
| Parameter | Normal Value |
|---|---|
| EF | 55-70% |
| LV diastole | 35-56 mm |
| LV systole | 20-40 mm |
| LA | <40 mm |
| Aortic root | <40 mm |
Echocardiography Advantages#
- Non-invasive
- No radiation
- Repeatable
- Can be performed at bedside
- Real-time imaging
Frequently Asked Questions#
Is echocardiography painful?
Do I need to fast for echocardiography?
How long does echocardiography take?
When will echocardiography results be ready?
Is echocardiography harmful?
Appointment and Contact#
To schedule an appointment for echocardiography:
📍 Avrasya Hospital - Beştelsiz Mah. 101. Sokak No:107, Zeytinburnu, Istanbul
📞 Phone: +90 212 665 50 50 (Ext: 4012)
This content was prepared by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Habib Çil for general informational purposes. Please consult a cardiology specialist for definitive diagnosis and treatment.