A 2D echocardiogram is a diagnostic test that provides excellent and clear images of the heart, the paracardiac structures and the vessels in the heart. It is a non-invasive technique that uses sonar waves in order to pass through the skin, reach the internal organs and form clear images.
Also known as the Doppler ultrasound of the heart, the 2D echo test can be used in conjunction with stress tests, in order to assess the proper functioning of the heart.
Benefits of a 2D echo test
- Helps identify blood clots in the heart
- Helps spot the presence of any fluid in the sac around the heart
- Helps determine the presence of an aneurysm, atherosclerosis or blockages in the artery owing to fat accumulation
- Very helpful in the identification of problems with the aorta, which is the main artery connected to the heart
What happens during a 2D echo test?
It is a quick and painless procedure and usually takes less than an hour to be completed.
Here’s what happens during a 2D echo test:
- Once you lie down on the examination table after taking off all clothes from the waist up and putting on a hospital gown, the doctor injects a saline solution or a dye into one of your veins. This helps with the formation of clearer pictures of the heart on the screen
- Soft, sticky patches called electrodes are attached to various places on your chest in order to monitor the heart’s electrical activity.
- Next, some gel is applied on your chest in order to conduct the 2D echo. This gel helps the sonar waves to reach your heart.
- A handheld device known as a transducer is then moved over the area on which the gel is applied, in order to get clear images of your heart on the screen.
- A computer helps convert the echoes from the transducer into pictures of your heart on the screen
- The gel is finally wiped off after the completion of the test, and then you are free to go.
A doctor or cardiologist will then examine these reports in order to detect any abnormalities in the functioning of your heart.
Preparations for a 2D echo
Your doctor will ask you to refrain from eating for a few hours before a 2D echo.
Ask your doctor beforehand if the 2D echo is to be conducted in conjunction with a TMT (Treadmill Test). If so, make sure you carry a pair of comfortable running shoes with you.
Apollo Support
At Apollo Clinic, we realise the importance of diagnostic and monitoring tests, along with the mental stress that the patient goes through before and during such tests.
Keeping this in mind, we have designed the most comfortable, advanced, best-in-class infrastructure and machinery, along with the most experienced, warm and trained professionals in order to make the process easier, quick and more result-oriented for all our patients.
Finding and treating any medical condition at an early stage can save you time and money. Ultrasound imaging plays an important role in health care as it helps identify various health issues related to the organs and structures inside the body and produces accurate results.
What is an Ultrasound?
An ultrasound is a type of imaging that uses high-frequency sound waves to capture live images of the organs and other structures inside the body. Also known as sonography, this test is used by most healthcare professionals to view the heart, kidneys, blood vessels, liver, and other organs. During pregnancy, doctors use ultrasound imaging to see the fetus. Unlike other imaging techniques, ultrasound does not use radiation and therefore, is the most preferred method to view a developing fetus during pregnancy.
Why is an Ultrasound performed?
Most people associate an Ultrasound test with pregnancy as it provides an expectant mother with a view of her unborn child. However, the test has many other uses. A doctor may suggest an ultrasound scan if you are having a swelling, pain, or any symptoms that require a glimpse of your organs. An ultrasound can provide a view of the bladder, gall bladder, eyes, kidneys, liver, pancreas, ovaries, thyroid, spleen, testicles, uterus, blood vessels, and more that helps to detect any health issues.
At Apollo Clinic, we understand the importance of your health and the essentiality of accurate diagnosis. Therefore, we offer you comprehensive care and a non-invasive Ultrasound test that helps determine how well your body organs are functioning and if there are any abnormalities present. This helps the doctor to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and treatment for the same.
Introduction:
Numerous health problems have become a major concern due to end number of reasons. Identifying a medical condition at an early stage is vital as it gives you much more time for treatment and the recovery process. An X-ray test plays a significant role in the life of an individual as it helps identify various abnormalities of the different parts and organs of the body, such as the bones, teeth, lungs, breast heart, abdomen, and more. We, at Apollo Clinic, understand that illnesses and injuries are uncertain and therefore, offer you X-ray services and aim at performing tests that assist in detecting the cause of your health problem.
What is an X-ray?
An X-ray is a kind of electromagnetic wave or radiation that is used for medical imaging. It is a quick and painless procedure that is performed to create various images of the structures within the body, particularly, the bones. An X-ray test is a very effective way to view the bones and can be used to help detect numerous health conditions such as fractures and infections, arthritis, osteoporosis, tooth infection and decay, lung infections, bone or breast cancer, digestive tract abnormalities, and more.
The chest X-ray is the most common type of X-ray test that is usually taken from the back to the front and helps reveal various abnormalities that cannot be detected during a physical examination. It provides an image of the organs and structures within the chest that include the heart, lungs, blood vessels and the muscles below the lungs.
At Apollo Clinic, we understand the importance of correct diagnosis for a disease or health issue and therefore, offer you both, non-invasive X-ray services and complete care with a human touch for our patients. This includes an extensive consultation with an expert doctor, who helps in spotting the underlying health issues if any. With the use of state of the art facilities and diagnostic equipment, we assure to provide you with an accurate diagnosis and treatment for the same. With branches all across the country, you can be assured that Apollo Clinic will be there to help you at every stage in your life, no matter where you go.
An Orthopantomogram, commonly known as an OPG, is a specialized dental X-ray that captures a panoramic view of the upper and lower jaws in a single image. This comprehensive imaging technique is invaluable in assessing various dental and maxillofacial conditions. At Apollo Clinic Barrackpore, our state-of-the-art OPG services aim to provide detailed insights for effective dental care and treatment planning.
What is OPG?
An OPG is a dental radiograph that offers a panoramic and detailed view of the entire mouth, jaw, and surrounding structures. This single image includes the teeth, upper and lower jaws, temporomandibular joints (TMJ), and the nasal and sinus areas.
The OPG is a versatile diagnostic tool widely used in dentistry for various purposes, including:
- Dental Assessments: Comprehensive evaluation of the teeth, including their position, development, and eruption patterns.
- Orthodontic Planning: Essential for orthodontic treatment planning by providing an overview of the entire jaw structure.
- TMJ Assessment: Examination of the temporomandibular joints to identify issues such as arthritis or joint abnormalities.
- Impacted Teeth: Detection of impacted teeth and assessment of their proximity to adjacent structures.
- Dental Pathology: Identification of dental and jaw pathology, including cysts, tumors, and infections.
How is OPG Conducted?
During an OPG procedure, the patient is positioned in front of the specialized machine, bites onto a designated mouthpiece, and remains stationary while the machine rotates around the head. This quick and painless process captures a detailed panoramic X-ray image of the entire oral and maxillofacial region within seconds. The resulting image provides crucial information for dental assessments, orthodontic planning, and the evaluation of temporomandibular joints, aiding in precise diagnoses and tailored treatment plans. At Apollo Clinic Barrackpore, our skilled dental professionals ensure an efficient and comfortable OPG experience for optimal oral health care.
Introduction
Studies reveal that over 16% of Indian women in the age group 40-60 are at risk of being diagnosed with breast cancer. Further, delayed detection can result in 1 of every 22 women developing breast cancer in India.1 The best way to detect breast cancer early is to go for regular breast screening exams. At Apollo Clinic, we consistently emphasize the importance of preventive screening and check-ups to ensure that your breasts are healthy.
What is Mammography?
The first stage of breast screening is called a mammogram. A mammogram is a low-dose x-ray of each breast used to identify tumors and other abnormalities. Mammography testing is widely accepted as one of the most effective methods of breast cancer detection. Early detection also helps in improving the chances of survival.
How is Mammography conducted?
A mammography test is a relatively simple procedure. You will be asked to remove your clothes from the waist up. Your breasts will then be placed on a resting plate, and a compression device would be applied. Though the compression causes slight discomfort, it is necessary to produce accurate images of the breast tissue. The discomfort is temporary, is not dangerous and does not cause any damage to the breast tissue. Typically, the technologist takes two views of each breast. Once the films are developed, these radiographs are checked by the technicians for clinical accuracy before you leave. The films are then viewed by radiologists who have specialized training in the interpretation of breast images. Depending on the results of the mammography images, you may be asked to go for additional imaging such as MRI or Ultrasound.
How can we help?
At Apollo Clinic, we strongly recommend that women in their 20s and 30s should get a mammogram screening every three years while women in their 40s and 50s should get one every two years. We use state-of-the-art equipment, follow stringent protocols and have the most skilled doctors, radiologists, technologists, nurses and support staff to make sure that every mammogram screening investigation and result is accurate.
Apollo Support
At Apollo Clinic, we firmly believe that preventive health care is the best measure you can take to safeguard your health. To this end, regular mammography tests are one of the best steps you can take towards preventing breast cancer. We are well-equipped with the requisite skill and infrastructure to conduct mammography tests with minimal inconvenience and high accuracy.
A CT (Computed Tomography) scan is a vital tool in modern medicine, providing detailed images of internal structures to aid in the diagnosis and monitoring of various health conditions. At Apollo Clinic Barrackpore, we offer state-of-the-art CT scanning services, ensuring accurate and timely information for your healthcare needs.
What is CT Scan?
A CT scan, also known as a CAT (Computed Axial Tomography) scan, is a non-invasive medical imaging procedure that combines X-ray technology with advanced computer processing. This results in detailed cross-sectional images of the body’s internal structures, allowing healthcare professionals to visualize organs, tissues, and bones with exceptional clarity.
Key features of a CT scan include:
- High Resolution: CT scans provide detailed, high-resolution images, offering a more in-depth view of internal structures than conventional X-rays.
- Multi-Dimensional Views: The technology allows for the creation of multi-dimensional images, enabling healthcare providers to examine structures from various angles.
- Rapid Imaging: CT scans are relatively quick, capturing detailed images in a matter of minutes. This efficiency is particularly beneficial in emergency situations or for patients with limited tolerance.
- Contrast Enhancement: In some cases, a contrast dye may be used to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels, aiding in the diagnosis of specific conditions.
CT scans are widely utilized across medical specialties, including neurology, oncology, cardiology, and orthopedics. They play a crucial role in diagnosing conditions such as tumors, infections, fractures, and vascular diseases.
How is CT Scan conducted?
During a CT scan, patients are positioned on a table that moves through a ring-shaped device housing the X-ray tube and detectors. The CT scanner rotates around the patient, capturing X-ray images from multiple angles. This process creates detailed cross-sectional images, or slices, which are swiftly processed by a computer. Patient cooperation is crucial, often involving brief moments of breath-holding for image clarity. The procedure is generally quick and painless, and results are promptly available for review. At Apollo Clinic, our skilled team ensures a comfortable experience, providing precise diagnostic information.