Echocardiogram (Echo)

Description: 
An Echo is a useful tool to evaluate the structure and function of the heartand associated vessels.  It is a painless and harmless test that uses ultrasound waves to produce images of the heart.

What to Expect During an Echocardiogram:

You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up.  Women will be given a gown to wear during the procedure.  The sonographer will apply ultrasound gel to a transducer.  The transducer is a wand like device that sends and receives the harmless ultrasound waves.  Next, the sonographer will begin to acquire ultrasound images and audio recordings by methodically and precisely moving the transducer around on your chest, stomach, and neck.  The sonographer will be viewing these images on a monitor and will take various recordings at several different locations or “views.”  During recording, you may be asked to change your position and hold your breath.  These variations in position and breathing allow the songrapher to obtain the best quality pictures.  The sonographer will press the transducer against your skin and this pressure may be moderate at times to facilitate the transmission of ultrasound waves.  If it becomes too uncomfortable, please let the sonographer know and he/she will allow you to take a short break.  You should try to remain still and quiet during the exam.  The imaging will take about 30 to 45 minutes.  The images will be submitted to a cardiologist who is a specially-trained physician in reading echocardiograms.  He or she will interpret the echocardiogram and will then provide your general physician with a written report.  Often, you will not be given any results for one or two days.  We appreciate your patience while we review your exam results and prepare our written report.

Patient Preparation for an Echocardiogram:

There is no special preparation required for an echocardiogram.  You should come as you are and eat or drink as you normally do.  If you take medications, you should continue to take them as normal.  You should plan on being at the Echocardiography lab for about 45 minutes.