Echocardiogram

Purpose of the Test

This test uses high frequency sound waves to determine the size, motion and function of many structures of the heart.

Patient Instructions

Medicine

• Take prescribed medicines unless told not to by your doctor.

Clothing

• Wear normal street clothes.

The Test

• Once in the test room, you will lie down on a table or bed. We will place three electrodes on your chest to monitor your heart during the test.
• We will place a probe on your chest. Sound waves will bounce off the structures of your heart and create a picture on a video screen. You will feel nothing during the test except slight pressure when the probe is placed firmly against the skin.
• We will take several pictures of your heart. When done we give the information to the doctor for review.
• The test time varies, but it often takes 20 to 40 minutes.

*If your echo includes a bubble study, with or without a transcranial doppler (TCD) exam, we will need to place an IV for the saline injections. Test time will be 60 to 90 minutes.