Heart ultrasound

Echocardiography (Heart Ultrasound) in Mykolaiv

Echocardiography (ECHO), also known as a heart ultrasound, is a modern diagnostic imaging method that allows physicians to assess the structure and function of the heart in real time. The examination helps detect valve disorders, impaired myocardial contractility, congenital or acquired heart defects, and other cardiovascular abnormalities.

At the ZDRAVO Medical Center in Mykolaiv, echocardiography is performed using expert-level equipment with Doppler capabilities, allowing precise assessment of blood flow. Patients receive their results immediately after the examination.

What does a heart ultrasound show?

Echocardiography allows the physician to evaluate:

• Size of the heart chambers
• Thickness and contractility of the myocardium
• Condition of the heart valves
• Direction and speed of blood flow
• Presence of fluid in the pericardium
• Signs of heart failure
• Ejection fraction

This method is a key tool in cardiological diagnostics and is often performed together with an ECG and laboratory tests.

When is echocardiography recommended?

An echocardiogram is recommended in cases of:

• Chest pain or discomfort
• Shortness of breath
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Swelling of the lower extremities
• High blood pressure
• Heart murmurs
• Suspected congenital or acquired heart defects
• After a myocardial infarction
• Monitoring chronic cardiovascular diseases

Heart ultrasound is also commonly used before surgery and as part of preventive health check-ups.

How is a heart ultrasound performed?

The most commonly used method is transthoracic echocardiography, which is performed through the chest wall.

The patient lies on an examination couch on their left side. The physician applies a special gel to the chest area and moves an ultrasound probe to obtain images of the heart from different angles. During the procedure, the patient may be asked to hold their breath for a few seconds to improve image clarity.

The examination usually takes 20–30 minutes. The procedure is painless and requires no recovery time.

In more complex cases, transesophageal echocardiography may be performed according to specific medical indications.

What is the difference between Doppler echocardiography?

Doppler ultrasound allows the assessment of the direction and speed of blood flow through the heart valves and vessels. It is important for:

• Diagnosing valvular insufficiency
• Detecting stenosis
• Assessing intracardiac pressure
• Determining the degree of heart failure

How to prepare for a heart ultrasound?

No special preparation is usually required.

Recommendations:

1. Wear comfortable clothing
2. Avoid intense physical activity a few hours before the examination
3. Bring previous cardiology test results

No restrictions on food or water intake are required unless otherwise advised by your physician.

Is the procedure safe?

Echocardiography does not involve radiation exposure and can be performed in children, pregnant women, and elderly patients. The method is also suitable for repeated monitoring over time.

Cost of a heart ultrasound in Mykolaiv

The price depends on the scope of the examination and whether Doppler imaging is required.

At ZDRAVO Medical Center, you receive:

• Modern expert-class equipment
• Accurate functional diagnostics
• Consultation on the results
• Comfortable conditions with no queues