Echocardiography (Trans-Thoracic and Trans-Esophageal Echocardiography)

An echocardiogram is a diagnostic procedure that uses ultrasound waves to produce a sonogram of the heart. Our physicians use the images to measure cardiac output, as well as the size and shape of the heart and how well blood is flowing through the heart’s valves and chambers. A standard echocardiogram is known as a trans-thoracic echocardiogram, or TTE and can be performed right at Essex Cardiology Group. The imaging for this fast, non-invasive test is acquired externally through a probe placed on the chest wall.

In some cases, we will order an alternative type of echocardiogram known as a trans-esophageal echocardiogram, or TEE. An ultrasound probe is placed into the patient’s esophagus – often after administration of a numbing agent or while under conscious sedation. The probe is positioned behind the heart, where it produces ultrasound views of the chambers and valves not seen on traditional echocardiograms.

Essex Cardiology Group, P.C. is proud to be an accredited facility by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission in Echocardiography.