“Can an ECG detect heart valve problems?”
My child's doctor suggested an ECG for my son. Should I be worried? Can an ECG detect heart valve problems?
2 Answers
CardiologistCardiologist
No, Echocardiogram is the best test to evaluate for valvular disease
ECGs are usually done to show the electrical rhythm of the heart. They can also show evidence of heart chamber thickening or enlargement. If a child had a narrowed valve or leaky valve it could affect the heart by either causing thickening or enlargement or both. It is not very specific of a test. If a valve abnormality is suspected then an ultrasound is often done to be able to specifically identify which valve might be affected. If the ECG is abnormal the an ultrasound is often the next test ordered. ECGs are sometimes done in the primary care office. Cardiac ultrasounds are usually done in a pediatric cardiology office.
