Model Released. Elderly man undergoing echocardiography examination, an ultrasound technique used to study the heart's structure and function by bouncing" high-frequency sound waves off its structures. A small transducer held against the chest emits the sound waves and acts as a receiver for returning signals. The two- dimensional echo gives a cross-sectional image of the heart, showing its beating chambers and valves. Echocardiography is used in the diagnosis of heart disease and for monitoring therapy. It is especially valuable in identifying children with congential heart defects & following the results of corrective surgery in later life."