Echo
The Echocardiogram uses ultrasound technology to visually see your heart as it beats in your chest. During this test the patient lies still on a table while a trained technician uses an ultrasound probe to make a videotape of his/her moving heart. The physician will study the tapes from the echocardiogram to look for abnormalities in cardiac wall motion, or flow of blood through the chambers of the heart. This test helps the physician determine if your heart is weakening, or if your heart valves are leaking. This test will only be ordered if your doctor deems it necessary.