The color Doppler echocardiography is the cardiac ultrasound that shows in real time the anatomy of the heart. y the flow of blood through its valves. In just 20 minutes, without radiation or pain, it helps diagnose valvular heart disease, measure pumping force and plan treatments that prevent heart failure or heart attacks.
What is a Doppler Echocardiogram and what is it for?
This test combines two-dimensional (2D) imaging with Doppler mode that colors the blood according to its direction and speed. It allows:
- Visualize size, thickness and movement of the cavities.
- Detect leaks (inadequacies) or hardships (stenosis) by measuring flow velocity.
- Calculate the ejection fraction -percentage of blood expelled per heartbeat- an essential guide in heart failure.
Indications: When do you need a Doppler echocardiogram?
The ACC/AHA 2025 guidelines recommend the study in these cases:
- Heart murmur or suspected valvular heart disease.
- Shortness of breath, fatigue or swelling without clear cause.
- Valuation after infarction or cardiac surgery.
- Control of pulmonary hypertension or cardiomyopathies.
- Pre-surgical evaluation prior to major or bariatric procedures (link to /pre-surgical-evaluation/).
Procedure: How is it done?
- Preparation: no fasting required; two-piece clothing.
- Electrodes to synchronize the image with the ECG.
- Conductive gel and transducer in different positions (parasternal, apical).
- Activation of Color DopplerThe speed of the sensor can be measured continuously or pulsed to measure velocities.
- Recording of key metrics: ejection fraction, valvular gradient, pulmonary systolic pressure.
- Printed and digital report on the same day.
Duration: 20-30 min. Discomfort: slight pressure of the transducer and coldness of the gel. No significant risks
Doppler echocardiogram with dobutamine
If the patient is unable to exercise, dobutamine increases the heart rate to reveal silent ischemia without the need for treadmill exercise.
Interpretation of results: What to expect?
| Key parameter | Normal range | Interpretation if altered |
|---|---|---|
| Ejection fraction | 55-70 % | < 50 % = pumping dysfunction |
| Maximum aortic gradient | < 20 mmHg | > 40 mmHg = severe stenosis |
| Mitral regurgitation | Trivia | Moderate-severe -> possible surgery |
| Pulmonary systolic pressure | < 35 mmHg | > 50 mmHg = pulmonary hypertension |
Dr. Castolo will explain each piece of information and, if necessary, will recommend medical adjustments or cardiac rehabilitation (/cardiac-rehabilitation/).
Benefits, advantages and risks
Benefits:
- Early diagnosis of valvulopathies and congenital heart disease.
- Therapeutic guide to adjust drugs or decide on surgery.
- Repeatable monitoring without radiation, ideal for follow-up and pregnancy.
Quick comparison
| Feature | Doppler Echo | coronary CT | Resonance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Radiation | No | Yes | No |
| Duration | 20 min | 10 min | 40 min |
| Average PV cost | $2 500 MXN | $12 000 MXN | $16 000 MXN |
Risks: minimal; occasional mild skin irritation from gel.
Price and coverage in Puerto Vallarta
The Color Doppler echocardiogram price with certified specialist varies between $2 200 and $2 800 MXNaccording to complexity (stress echo or transesophageal). We accept reimbursement from most insurance companies; invoice with CPT key and ICD-10 diagnosis included.
Where to do a Doppler Echocardiogram in Puerto Vallarta?
Dr. Karla Castolo performs the test in an office affiliated to an accredited hospital center, with high resolution color Doppler ultrasound. Extended hours and free parking. Quotas same-day available by calling before 11 a.m.
Patient opinions and experience
98 % of users rate the echocardiogram as "fast and painless" in multiple clinic satisfaction surveys. These data support the convenience and usefulness of the study without exposing specific cases.
Next step for your Color Doppler Echocardiogram
Knowing the real state of your heart is the first step to prevent complications. Schedule your echocardiogram or send your questions: we will respond in less than 2 hours by WhatsApp and you will receive interpreted results the same day.