Why is echocardiography/cardiac sonography important?
It can be quite helpful in establishing a specific diagnosis and estimating the severity of various cardiac diseases. It is important to recognize, however, that the ultrasound exam is only a part of the complete cardiac work-up. Findings on the echocardiogram must be integrated with information obtained from the history and physical exam, cardiac and pulmonary auscultation, electrocardiogram, thoracic radiographs and other pertinent ancillary tests in order to determine the complete diagnosis and optimal therapeutic plan for each individual patient. Technical expertise in performing and interpreting the echocardiographic examination are prerequisites to the valid use of this clinical tool.
