2D ECHO (Echocardiography)

2D Echo is an acronym for 2-Dimensional Echocardiogram. It is a safe, non-invasive and painless procedure that helps in diagnosing various heart diseases and disorders. To capture the images of the heart, it uses ultrasound waves that are generated through a transducer (microphone-like device).

The ultrasound waves return varying tissues of the heart in the direction in which the device is pointed. The generated waves are then captured back by the crystal in the receiving mode and transformed into electrical signals to produce the images of the heart on the monitor.

Why is 2D ECHO Echocardiography Done?

The 2D Echo provides a clear image of the heart that helps provide doctors with an improved understanding of:

How your heart is beating
Heart and its chambers' shape and size
The heart’s ability for pumping blood efficiently.
Pericardium
Problems in heart chambers
Problems with Heart muscles
Problems in heart valves
Blood clots
Congenital heart defects

What is the Procedure for 2D ECHO Echocardiography?

A technician will apply the colorless gel to your chest to analyze the ultrasound vibrations with a transducer.
A technician will place the head of the transducer on your chest at different positions and the images of the heart will start generating immediately, providing specific views of the heart.
You will be asked to stay still, breathe in and out in a slow manner, hold your breath, or lie on your left side.
The technician will keep moving the transducer until the images are produced.

How Does one Prepare for the 2D Echocardiography test?

For the 2D ECHO Test, no special preparation is required. But in the case of stress echocardiography and transoesophageal echocardiography tests, fasting is required for a few hours. Inform the technician about ongoing medications, supplements, and allergies if any.