Echocardiogram Study (Echo)

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Echocardiogram Study (Echo)

What is an echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram (echo) study is a simple, safe test that will help your doctor find out if you have a problem with your heart and, if so, how to treat the problem. An echo is also called a sonogram and uses ultrasound to look at your heart. Ultrasound is sound waves that are too high-pitched to be heard or felt. They are directed toward the heart. The sound waves are recorded and used to create a moving picture of the heart. A specially trained technician will do the echo. The echo will be done in the Cardiovascular Lab unless you are in an intensive care unit.

Will I be asleep during the study?
No, you will not be asleep during the study. No medications or IV's will be used for a routine echo.

What will happen to me during the echo?
The technician will ask you to undress from the waist up, put on a hospital gown and to lie down on a stretcher on your back. Electrodes (they look like round stickers) with wires will be put on your chest to record your heart beat during the study. The technician will put a gel (jelly-like substance) on your chest. You will then be asked to roll onto your left side. The technician will place a scanner over the gel and scan your heart at various places on your chest. The scanner is used to send and receive the ultrasound waves. When the technician places the scanner on your chest pressure must be applied. Pressure helps scan the tissue (area) between your chest and your heart. The pressure applied does cause discomfort in some people. Be sure to tell the technician if you have chest soreness.

How long will the test take?
The actual test will last from thirty minutes to one hour.

What happens after the test?
You can resume your normal activities when the test is over. If you are a patient in the hospital, you will return to your room and continue the activities that your doctor has approved.

When do I get the results?
Hospital patients will get the results from their doctor. If you are an outpatient, the results will be added to your chart. You will get your results the next time you visit your doctor.

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