Echocardiogram (Echo)

An echocardiogram is a picture of the heart taken using sound waves. This image gives information about the structure and function of the heart.

Ectopic Beat (Extrasystole)

An ectopic beat is a premature heartbeat due to a contraction impulse from an abnormal source. Normally the sinoatrial node starts the contraction process. With an ectopic beat, however, either a source in the atria (supraventricular) or a source in the ventricles (ventricular) may initiate the contraction. Among the causes of ectopic beats are heart disease, smoking, and caffeine.

Edema

Edema is swelling caused by excess fluid accumulated in body tissues. (Edema was formerly known as dropsy.) Possible results range from swollen limbs to heart failure, depending on the extent and location of the swelling. Edema in the lungs is known as pulmonary edema and is life threatening.

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

test that records changes in the electrical activity of the heart. May show whether parts of the heart muscle have been damaged due to insufficient oxygen flow to the heart.

Electrophysiology

The study of the heart's electrical system; a sub-specialty within cardiology.

Embolic Debris

A clot or foreign debris, which could dislodge and cause severe complications such as a heart attack.

Embolic Protection

Devices used by physicians to catch and remove embolic debris during PCI or PTCA.

Embolism

The sudden blocking of an artery by a clot or foreign material which has been brought to its site of lodgement by the blood current.

Embolotherapy

The introduction of various products, such as coils, balloons or particles, into the circulation to occlude vessels for the purpose of arresting or preventing hemorrhage related to gastrointestinal bleeding and trauma. Also used to restrict blood supply to various tumors.

Embolus

An embolus is a clot of blood, fat, air, or some other substance that travels through the bloodstream, lodging in small vessels.

Endocarditis

Endocarditis is an inflammation of the endocardium (the lining of the heart) and valves. Frequently caused by a bacterial infection or rheumatic fever, symptoms include fever, embolism, changing heart murmurs, and heart failure.

Endocardium

The endocardium is the delicate inner lining of the heart, which also covers the arteries, veins and valves. The cusps of the valves are formed from folds of this linings.

Endomyocarditis

Endomyocarditis is an inflammation of the muscle and lining membrane of the heart, frequently caused by a viral infection or rheumatic fever. Symptoms include arrhythmias, enlargement of the heart, murmurs, and embolisms. (If the pericardium, the sac surrounding the heart, is also inflamed then the diagnosis is pancarditis.)

Endovascular

Within the vascular system.

Enteral Feeding

Nutritional support supplied through a tube.

Epicardium

The epicardium is both the outer layer of the heart and the inner layer of the pericardium (the sac surrounding the heart).