The most important blood-pumping organ in the human body that supplies oxygen to all parts is the heart. It ensures that the nutrients reach every cell. There are different heart-related tests that doctors run to see if the heart is working properly, and bubble study is one of them.
A bubble study or a bubble contrast echocardiogram is a non-invasive procedure that provides added information on heart blood flow. The bubble exam evaluates the presence of a right to left shunt (RLS), potentially causing unexplained strokes. Thus, the study uses transracial Doppler ultrasound, transthoracic echocardiography, and transesophageal echocardiography to evaluate heart health.
Working On A Bubble Study
A non-invasive diagnostic bubble study is done along with a contrast echocardiogram. There are different steps in a bubble study to identify whether the heart is working normally or abnormally.
Step 1: Mixing Salt Solution
The first step is taking a small amount of sterile saline to make salt water. It is mixed with air to create tiny bubbles.
Step 2: Infusion
The second step is taking the bubble mixture and injecting it into the arm’s vein.
Step 3: Echocardiogram Monitoring
The bubbles travel through the vein to the heart’s right side. It can be seen on the echocardiogram due to the production of increased density.
Step 4: Filtration
Then, the bubbles pass through the pulmonary artery from the right side of the heart and go to the lungs to get filtered. This case shows the normal functioning of the heart.
Why Is A Bubble Study Performed?
A bubble study figures out if there is an abnormality in the heart. The abnormality is figured out if there is a hole in the heart (PFO or ASD) and some bubbles move from the right side to the left side of the heart. The holes may cause strokes or other health complications in our body. Thereore, if you have symptoms like unexplained strokes or frequent migraines, your doctor may recommend a bubble study to ensure your heart is working properly.
Is the Bubble Study Safe?
Yes, a bubble contrast echocardiogram is generally considered very safe as it is evaluated to determine a right-to-left shunt. The bubbles exam uses a saline solution that dissolves in the bloodstream and is filtered out by the lungs within seconds. It only has a slight sensational feeling when the bubbles are injected. Overall, the procedure is safe and painless.
The Final Word!
Professionals perform a bubble study to examine if a patient has symptoms of a heart defect. It may be a small hole or flap in the heart causing low oxygen in the blood. The contrast of microbubbles detects such holes present in the right upper chambers of the heart.
It is important for you to understand the risk factors associated with an abnormal heart. At Memorial Cardiology Associates, we perform a bubble study to evaluate any complications in your heart. To schedule your appointment, contact us today.