The Echocardiogram Scan

What is an Echocardiogram scan?

• An echocardiogram - or 'echo' - is a test in which ultrasound is used to examine the heart
• It provides information on the size of the heart chambers, the function of the heart muscle or 'pump' and also the heart valves

Who will I see?

• A small team of cardiology staff will look after you during your visit and a Cardiac Physiologist will carry out the scan

Is it safe?

• Yes, an echo is a very quick and safe procedure

Do I need an injection?

• No, you won't need an injection

Before the scan

• You can eat and drink normally before your echo and take your usual medication
• Please bring a list of your current medication
• It would also be helpful to wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove to expose the chest area

What happens during my appointment?

• You'll be greeted by a Cardiac Physiologist or Clinical Assistant and the physiologist will perform the test
• You'll be asked to undress to the waist and lie on your back on a comfortable couch
• You may also be asked to lie on your side depending on the images needed
• Sticky patches or electrodes are attached to the chest and connected to wires. These help to record the electrocardiogram (ECG) during the test
• The Cardiac Physiologist will place a gel-covered probe on your chest in different places (called 'acoustic windows') and record pictures of the heart, make measurements and look at blood flow
• During the test you may be aware of some noises from the machine. This is known as 'Doppler' and allows the physiologist to look at blood flow within the different parts of the heart
• The images are constantly viewed on the monitor and are also recorded. This gives a permanent record of the examination and may be reviewed by the physician prior to completion of the final report

Will it be uncomfortable?

• No, you'll feel no pain during the scan

How long will it take?

• The procedure typically takes between 10 and 30 minutes

After the scan

• You'll be given some tissue to wipe any residual gel from your chest and then asked to dress again
• After your scan you can eat and drink normally and are free to go home or return to work if you need to

Are there any side effects?

• No, there are no known side effects to the procedure

When will I get the results?

• The physiologist will write a technical report, which will be sent to your doctor, normally within a week. The doctor will then make their recommendations based on this report and may view your images
• You'll need to contact your doctor or consultant to get your results

Can I bring a relative or friend?

• Yes, but they'll only be allowed to go into the examination room in special circumstances - this is for safety reasons

Learn more

• Scan Dictionary - an A-Z of common terms
• AMTV: Patient Channel - browse our patient video gallery here
• Find your location - find your location here
• Arrange a scan - if you'd like to arrange a scan for yourself, find out more here
• Infection control - learn what we're doing to keep you safe here
• Got a question, query or concern? Just contact us, we'd be delighted to help