If you’ve been scheduled for an echocardiogram-transthoracic (TTE), understanding what to expect during the procedure can help ease any anxiety you may have. This non-invasive test is commonly used to evaluate heart health, and it’s essential to be prepared for the process.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of what typically happens during a TTE:

1. Preparation: You’ll be asked to change into a hospital gown and lie down on an examination table. The technician will attach electrodes to your chest to monitor your heart’s electrical activity during the test.
2. Gel application: A special gel is applied to the chest to ecocardiograma precio enhance the conduction of sound waves. This gel helps ensure the transducer makes good contact with your skin.
3. Transducer placement: The technician will place the transducer on your chest, moving it to various positions to capture different views of your heart. You may be asked to change positions, like lying on your left side or taking deep breaths, to optimize image quality.
4. Image acquisition: As the transducer emits sound waves, it captures echoes bouncing off different parts of your heart. These echoes are processed to create real-time images on a monitor.
5. Data collection: The technician will focus on specific areas of interest, such as the chambers, valves, and major blood vessels. They may use color Doppler to assess blood flow patterns and detect any abnormalities.
6. Post-procedure: Once the necessary images are obtained, the technician will wipe off the gel from your chest. You can then change back into your regular clothing and resume your normal activities.

TTE is a painless procedure, and the entire process typically takes around 30 to 45 minutes. You can expect your healthcare provider to interpret the results and discuss them with you during a follow-up appointment.