TTE is a term often used by physicians to refer to transthoracic echocardiograms or cardiac ultrasounds. Patients will often see or hear this abbreviation.
Ultrasonography is an imaging test that uses ultrasounds produced by a probe. When ultrasounds come into contact with a structure in the body, they produce echos that are specific to the surface encountered. The probe is linked to a computer, which analyzes the various echoes and assembles them to form images in real time.
Ultrasounds have a frequency of 20,000 Hz which cannot be heard by humans.
Thus, transthoracic echocardiography is a specialized ultrasound of the heart, performed by a cardiologist, which evaluates the structure of the heart (cavities, valves, walls, etc.) and how well it is functioning.
This examination is generally performed in conjunction with a Doppler ultrasound to analyze the blood flow in the heart.
Why have a transthoracic echocardiogram?
TTE is usually prescribed when a heart condition is suspected or has been proven in order to evaluate its severity:
- Chest pain,
- High blood pressure,
- Heart rhythm disorders,
- Heart failure,
- Palpitations,
- Post-myocardial infarction (heart attack),
- Etc.
How to prepare for it?
The classic TTE does not require any special preparation. However, it is recommended to have clean skin for the test, and to not apply any cosmetic products (cream or deodorant) that could interfere with the ultrasounds.
How does the exam take place?
The exam can be performed in a cardiologist’s office or during hospitalization.
It lasts between 10 and 30 minutes, is performed without anesthesia and is painless. TTE does not have any side effects or contraindications.
The patient lies down on the examination table, on their left side and bare-chested, and the cardiologist applies an ultrasound gel to improve the transmission of the ultrasounds. The physician then moves the probe over the patient’s torso and views the image of the heart on their screen. Light pressure is needed in order to obtain a high-quality image.
Reviewed and approved by Marine Arnaud, MD, Cardiologist at Bordeaux University Hospital (CHU)
