Final answer:
To evaluate heart function and detect defects via sound waves, an echocardiogram, or echo, is used. This sonogram of the heart helps diagnose structural issues such as valve and septal disorders, supplementing the initial procedure of auscultation which detects abnormal heart sounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
To evaluate cardiac function and structure, and to detect defects by means of sound waves, a medical professional can use a diagnostic tool known as an echocardiogram. An echocardiogram, which is sometimes referred to simply as an "echo", is essentially a sonogram of the heart. This non-invasive test utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create images of the heart's chambers, valves, and surrounding structures. It's a key tool for diagnosing various cardiac conditions including defects in the structure of the heart such as valve and septal disorders.
The process of auscultation, which is listening to the heart sounds using a stethoscope, can identify abnormal heart sounds that suggest a potential cardiac issue. Should any abnormalities be detected, an echocardiogram can provide a more detailed view, enabling physicians to observe the heart in motion and assess its function. Unlike other imaging techniques, ultrasonography, which includes echocardiography, is the least invasive and it's used to analyze heart function, blood flow, and to diagnose various heart conditions.
Overall, echocardiography is indispensable for cardiologists and plays a fundamental role in modern cardiology with its ability to reveal a wide range of heart pathologies with remarkable clarity.