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Echocardiogram Study

Have you ever had an echocardiogram ("echo") done on your heart? Maybe your doctor has ordered one for you. This link will explain what an echo is and how the procedure is performed. If you have any questions about an echo you have had or an upcoming echo, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are hear to help.

What is an Echocardiogram?

Echocardiogram (often called “echo” for short) is an ultrasound that takes moving pictures of the heart using sound waves. Echocardiography is used to look for many things:

• Size and shape of your heart

• Heart chambers and valves function

• Injured areas of heart muscle

• Blood clots in the heart

• Fluid buildup around heart

• Problems with the aorta

What is Done During an Echo?

In this test, you’ll lie on an exam table with patches attached to your chest to record your heart’s electrical activity. Your doctor will apply gel to your chest and move a wand around on your chest to produce pictures of your heart on a nearby screen. Some kinds of echocardiography will require your doctor to inject a special substance into one of your veins through your arm or hand. The test is painless and can take up to an hour to finish. Some doctors will walk you through what they’re seeing, while others may choose to provide results after the test is over.

https://www.heartplace.com/services-echocardiogram