Doppler ultrasound of the heart - Functioning principles

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THE DOPPLER ULTRASOUND OF THE HEART

- Functioning principles
- Concrete implementation
- Results
- Indications

An ultrasound of the heart allows the cardiologist to perfectly see the whole tissues which constitute the heart as well as its kinetics.

The Doppler, frequently coupled to the ultrasound, permits to measure the blood flows in the different cavities of the heart.

The Doppler ultrasound of the heart is a completely painless exam which allows the cardiologist to give you a lot of information concerning your heart.

This exam does not include any complication.

FUNCTIONING PRINCIPLES

Ultrasound and Doppler are based on the use of the ultrasounds.

An ultrasound is emitted by the ultrasound probe; it then comes up against the heart which sends back the ultrasound. This one will then be perceived by the probe which then transmits a picture.

As the speed of the ultrasounds is very high, it is possible to get several pictures per second (about 24) which permits to have mobile pictures of the heart.

The Doppler is also based on the same principle, and can function with colour (colour Doppler) or not (pulsed or continuous Doppler).

Thus, the Doppler permits to analyse the speed of the blood flow.

File last reviewed on dec 18, 2011

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Informations on Heart & Vessels are only given by doctors who are specialized in cardiology.