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How to Interpret an Echocardiogram Report in Plain English
How to interpret echocardiogram results, section by section, with abbreviations translated for you
An echo report doesn't have to feel like a foreign language.
To interpret an echocardiogram, read it in four parts: the study summary, measurements of the chambers and walls, valve findings, and the overall impression. Start with the impression for the plain-language conclusion, then look at EF (ejection fraction) and any valve terms like 'regurgitation' or 'stenosis' to understand the detail.
What It Means
Most echo reports follow a similar layout. Once you know what each section covers, the abbreviations and numbers become much easier to follow.
Why It Matters
Reading your own report can help you ask better questions and feel more in control of your heart care.
What Is Normal
A normal report typically describes chambers of expected size, walls of normal thickness, valves opening and closing well, and an EF in the 55–70% range.
When To Pay Attention
Words like 'reduced', 'enlarged', 'thickened', 'regurgitation' or 'stenosis' are worth asking about — especially if they're new compared with previous scans.
Common questions
How do you interpret an echocardiogram?
Read the impression first for the doctor's plain-language summary, then check the measurements (chamber size, wall thickness, EF), and finally the valve findings. Comparing each section with your previous echo is the fastest way to see what's changed.
How do you interpret echocardiogram results?
Focus on three things: ejection fraction (EF) for pump strength, chamber sizes and wall thickness for structure, and valve findings for any leaks (regurgitation) or narrowing (stenosis). Words like 'mild', 'moderate' or 'severe' grade how significant a finding is.
What sections are in an echocardiogram report?
Most reports include a study summary, measurements (chambers and walls), valve findings, and an overall impression or conclusion.
What do all the abbreviations mean?
Common ones include LV/RV (ventricles), LA/RA (atria), EF (ejection fraction), MR/AR/TR (mitral/aortic/tricuspid regurgitation) and IVS (interventricular septum).