What is an echocardiogram?
Echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart. The picture is much more detailed than an X-ray image and involves no radiation exposure. During an echocardiogram test, ultrasound (high frequency sound waves) provide pictures of the heart’s valves and chambers and helps the sonographer evaluate the pumping action of the heart. Echo is often combined with Doppler ultrasound and color Doppler to evaluate blood flow across the heart’s valves.

Your doctor may ask you to have an echo to:

• Assess the overall function of your heart;
• Determine the presence of many types of heart disease (such as valvular heart disease, myocardial disease, pericardial disease, cardiac masses and congenital heart disease);
• Follow the progress of valve disease over time; and
• Evaluate the effectiveness of medical or surgical treatments.

Can I eat or drink on the day of the test?
Yes. Eat and drink as you normally would on the day of the test.

Should I take my medications the day of the test?
Take all of your medications at the usual times, as prescribed by your doctor.

What happens during the test?
You will be given a hospital gown to wear. You will be asked to remove your clothing from the waist up.

• A cardiac sonographer will place three electrodes (small, flat, sticky patches) on your chest. The electrodes are attached to an electrocardiograph monitor (EKG) that charts your heart’s electrical activity.
• The sonographer will ask you to lie on your left side on an exam table. The sonographer will place a wand (called a sound-wave transducer) on several areas of your chest. The wand will have a small amount of gel on the end, which will not harm your skin.
• Sounds are part of the Doppler signal. You may or may not hear the sounds during the test.
• You may be asked to change positions several times during the exam in order for the sonographer to take pictures of different areas of your heart.

How will I feel during the test?
You should feel no major discomfort during the test. You may feel a coolness from the gel on the transducer and a slight pressure of the transducer on your chest.

How long does the test take?
The test will take about 40 minutes. After the test, you may get dressed and go home or go to your other scheduled appointments.

How do I get the results of my test?
After a cardiologist reviews the test results, a report will be sent to your doctor. Your physician will mail the test results to you or discuss them with you.