An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to show the heart in motion. Cardiac sonographers perform several types to answer different clinical questions. At National Polytechnic College (NPCollege) in Lakewood, CA, we prepare students for this rewarding work through our Cardiovascular Sonography program. In this guide, we explain the different types of echocardiograms and how our training prepares you for this healthcare career.
Key Takeaways
- Some echocardiograms use an external probe, while others require an internal approach.
- Doppler and three-dimensional imaging can be incorporated into different examinations.
- Specialized procedures require the right training.
- NPCollege prepares students for a cardiovascular sonography career through classroom instruction and hands-on experience.
Why Are There Different Types of Echocardiograms?
Physicians need different information depending on the patient’s symptoms and medical history. Some conditions are hard to diagnose with images through the chest, while others have symptoms that only develop during activity. Different echo techniques give physicians the details they need for an accurate diagnosis.
Types of Echocardiograms Done by Cardiac Sonographers
Cardiac sonographers perform many cardiac ultrasound examinations and assist with others. Their responsibilities depend on training and facility protocols as well as the type of echocardiogram being done.
Transthoracic Echocardiogram
During a transthoracic echocardiogram, or TTE, the sonographer moves a gel-covered probe across the chest. They capture standard views from several positions. Transthoracic echocardiograms are the most common type of echocardiogram, and physicians order them to evaluate symptoms like shortness of breath and to monitor heart failure.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram
During a transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE), a physician guides a thin probe into the esophagus directly behind the heart. This position bypasses the ribs and lungs for highly detailed images. Sonographers prepare the ultrasound system beforehand, then optimize settings and record images during the procedure.
Stress Echocardiogram
A stress echo compares heart images at rest and under stress. Most patients exercise on a treadmill or bike, while those who can’t exercise receive medication like dobutamine. Either way, sonographers must capture images quickly at peak stress.
Doppler Echocardiogram
Doppler imaging measures blood flow and accompanies most echo exams. The main techniques include:
- Color doppler: Color overlays show the direction and speed of blood flow, revealing leaky valves and abnormal openings.
- Spectral doppler: Spectral doppler graphs flow velocity to gauge the amount of valve narrowing.
- Tissue doppler: This tracks the motion of heart muscle to see how well the heart relaxes.
Together, these techniques help physicians assess valve functioning and how the heart contracts.
Contrast Echocardiogram
When patients are hard to image, a microbubble contrast agent is given through an IV to help brighten the heart chambers and sharpen wall borders. Physicians will often order a related bubble study to help detect a hole between the upper chambers.
Fetal Echocardiogram
A fetal echocardiogram evaluates an unborn baby’s heart, usually in the second trimester. It requires specialized training because the fetal heart is small and beats rapidly.
Three-Dimensional (3-D) Echocardiography
Specialized transducers create multiple images of the heart in different dimensions. These help physicians assess valve anatomy and guide some structural heart procedures.
How Training at NPCollege Helps Build the Skills You Need
Regardless of which kind of echo exam you perform, you need a solid grasp of cardiac anatomy and a solid scanning technique. Our Cardiovascular Sonography program helps you develop both, one step at a time.
Learning starts with a blended approach. Our lectures combine in-person instruction with live-streamed online lessons, so students can master echo principles on their own time. From there, our on-campus labs turn those lessons into hands-on practice. Students learn how to capture clear images and document findings the way they will on the job.
Finally, clinical rotations help students implement that practice in real healthcare settings, where they’ll work alongside experienced cardiac sonographers. By graduation, students are prepared to pursue industry certification.
At NPCollege, our support doesn’t stop in the classroom. Eligible students may qualify for financial aid to help cover tuition, which can help make your training affordable. Additionally, our career services team helps graduates connect with employers as they launch their careers.
Take Your Next Step Toward a Career in Echocardiography
Are you ready to learn the techniques behind every type of echocardiogram? At NPCollege, you can earn a diploma in 24 months or an associate degree in 26 months. Contact us today to schedule a tour of our Lakewood, CA, campus.
Frequently Asked Questions About Types of Echocardiograms
Which type of echocardiogram is most common?
The transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) is the most common type. It’s non-invasive and usually the first test physicians order for heart concerns. Most TTE exams include Doppler imaging to measure blood flow. If the results are inconclusive or raise more questions, physicians may order a more specialized test, such as a TEE or stress echo.
Is a contrast echocardiogram safe?
Yes. Ultrasound contrast agents are considered safe for most patients, and serious reactions are rare because the microbubbles dissolve and leave the body naturally. Care teams monitor patients during and after the injections. If you have allergies or any heart or lung condition, let your provider know beforehand.
Do cardiac sonographers perform every type of echo?
Most cardiac sonographers perform TTE exams and support stress echo and TEE procedures. However, fetal echocardiography and other types of echo exams may require additional training and experience in Diagnostic Medical Sonography. Once you get your degree, you can start building your experience in advanced techniques, such as 3-D imaging.
Is Doppler a separate exam from a standard echo?
Usually, no. Doppler is a technique included within an echocardiogram. Standard images show anatomy and movement, while Doppler adds information about blood flow or tissue motion. This combination helps physicians evaluate how the heart functions.
Are echocardiograms the same as EKGs?
No. Echocardiograms use ultrasound to create images of the heart and assess its function. Electrocardiograms (EKGs) record the heart’s electrical activity through electrodes on the skin. Both provide useful information about cardiac function, which is why they’re sometimes used together.