Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a scan of your heart that produces an image on the screen in order to obtain an accurate picture of how your cardiac function. The picture produced identifies different structures of the heart such as the heart valves, chambers and blood flow. It is a useful diagnostic tool for identifying structural abnormalities of the heart and assessing its overall mechanical function.
To prepare for the test:
There is no special preparation required for this test. However, prior to your exam, you should inform us of any medications you are taking, if you are pregnant, and of any medical implants.
During the test:
You'll be asked to remove all clothing above your waist, to don a hospital gown and then to lie on an examination table. You may be asked to turn on your side during the test. A technician will attach electrodes to your chest so that an ECG can be recorded. A gel will be applied and a small probe is then placed on your chest to record the images. An ultrasound beam passes through the tissues of the chest wall and heart. This test is painless and noninvasive. You will only feel the transducer on your chest. You will also hear the flow of blood through your heart. This is part of the routine investigation and is normal.
The exam takes approximately 30 minutes to an hour.
The results of your exam will be interpreted within 48 hours. They will be forwarded to your physician. Your physician will decide whether or not further testing is necessary based upon the results of your exam.
Do not stop any medications for this test unless your physician has told you to do so.
Stress Echocardiogram:
During a stress echo, a patient walks on a treadmill or pedals a stationary bike to monitor the heart during exercise, with breathing and blood pressure also monitored. A stress test may be used to detect coronary artery disease, and/or to determine safe levels of exercise following a heart attack or heart surgery. Ultrasound pictures of the heart are taken before and after exercise to determine whether there are any blockages to the heart.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram:
During this test a small device is threaded down the esophagus to provide a clearer image of heart structures from a different angle.
In transesophageal (transthoracic) echocardiograms, the transducer is placed against the skin of the chest. However, when fine details of the heart's structure need to be studied, or when looking for small blood clots in the heart's chambers, transesophageal echocardiography may be required. In this form of echocardiogram, the transducer is passed through the mouth and into the esophagus, which is located just behind the heart, in order that a clearer picture of the heart can be obtained.
Congenital Echocardiogram:
Highly trained cardiologists use specially designed equipment to evaluate pediatric and adult patients suspected of having a congenital abnormality of the heart.
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