Definition

1. Noun:
   • A diagnostic instrument that uses ultrasound to create a moving image of the heart's structure and function. It is used to assess the heart's chambers, valves, and major blood vessels, and to detect abnormalities.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The cardiologist used an echocardiograph to check the patient's heart valve function.
  • A portable echocardiograph was brought to the patient's bedside for an urgent examination.
  • The echocardiograph revealed a small pericardial effusion.

Advanced Usage

• "To perform an echocardiograph": This phrase is less common. The standard phrasing is "to perform an echocardiogram" (the test) using an echocardiograph (the machine).
  • The technician will perform an echocardiogram using the echocardiograph.
• The process or image produced is called an echocardiogram.

Variants and Related Words

• Echocardiography (n): The medical specialty or diagnostic procedure of using ultrasound to examine the heart.
  • She specializes in pediatric echocardiography.
• Echocardiogram (n): The visual record or image produced by an echocardiograph.
  • The doctor reviewed the echocardiogram.
• Transthoracic echocardiograph (TTE) (n): A standard echocardiograph where the transducer is placed on the chest wall.
• Transesophageal echocardiograph (TEE) (n): A specialized echocardiograph where the transducer is passed down the esophagus to get a closer image of the heart.

Synonyms

• Cardiac ultrasound machine: A descriptive synonym emphasizing the technology used.
• Echo machine: A common informal term used in clinical settings.

Related Phrases

• To undergo an echocardiogram: To have the test performed.
  • The patient will undergo an echocardiogram tomorrow.
• Echocardiographic findings: The results or observations from the echocardiogram.
  • The echocardiographic findings were consistent with heart failure.

Noun

1. a sonograph that creates an image of the heart and its abnormalities