Echocardiogram

What it is

An echocardiogram (echo) is an ultrasound of the heart. A cardiac sonographer places a small probe on your chest with a dab of gel. Sound waves bounce off heart tissue and blood, and a computer turns those echoes into a live, moving picture. Colour and Doppler imaging let us measure how blood is flowing through your valves and chambers.

Why it is ordered

• Investigate chest pain, shortness of breath, swelling, or a murmur
• Assess valve disease, heart-muscle function, and chamber size
• Follow known heart conditions or check the heart before a procedure
• Screen when there is a strong family history of cardiomyopathy

Before your visit

1. 01No fasting or special preparation is required
2. 02Take your medications as prescribed unless your doctor says otherwise
3. 03Wear a two-piece outfit; you will change into a gown from the waist up
4. 04Bring your health card, requisition, and a current medication list

During the test

1. 01Three ECG electrodes are placed on your chest
2. 02You lie on your left side when possible — this gives the clearest windows
3. 03The sonographer applies gel and the probe, with firm but brief pressure
4. 04You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time
5. 05The scan usually takes 30 minutes; complex studies can run longer

After

1. 01Gel is wiped off and you can dress and leave right away
2. 02A cardiologist interprets the study; your referring doctor receives the report
3. 03Resume normal activity unless you are told otherwise

Questions we hear often