What is it?: Echocardiography is a noninvasive and safe imaging test that uses harmless sound waves to provide accurate images of the heart. It shows how well your heart muscle and valves are working. The study takes about 45 minutes and is done while the patient lies quietly on an exam table. There is no discomfort and no medications are used.
How do I prepare for the test?: Be sure to mention what medicines you take when your test is scheduled. Ask if you should take any of your medicines or eat on the day of the test. You may need to undress from the waist up and put on a hospital gown, so make sure you wear a two-piece outfit.
During your Echocardiogram:
- Small pads (electrodes) are placed on your chest to monitor your heartbeat.
- A transducer coated with a cool gel is moved firmly over your chest. This device creates the sound waves that make images of your heart.
- At times, you may be asked to exhale and hold your breath for a few seconds. Air in your lungs can affect the images.
- The images of your heart are recorded on video so your doctor can review them later.
Echocardiography provides valuable information about the heart:
- Cardiac anatomy is shown. Sound waves are reflected off the heart muscle, and the equipment displays a two-dimensional image of the heart on the screen. Imaging technologies are used that allow us to see all of the heart structures. With experience, the cardiologist can dissect the information and measure the dimensions of the heart. All the structures of the heart are well seen.
- Cardiac function information is seen. The ability of the heart to contract is measured and any areas of decreased contracting are seen. Also, the relaxation phase of the cardiac cycle is assessed. And, the cardiac output -- in liters per minute -- can also be measured.
- The heart valves are checked. The four cardiac valves are visualized by two-dimensional imaging. Advanced Color Doppler methods allow us to "see" blood flow around the valves. The degree of valve narrowing can also be measured by the Doppler studies.
- Echocardiography provides invaluable information that helps determine the best time to repair or replace a cardiac valve, should you need it.
After the test: Ask if you can take any medicines that you were told to skip before the test. Most people can eat and return to their normal routine when the test is over.
The test results: Your doctor will discuss the test results with you at a future office visit. The test results help your doctor plan for your treatment and any other tests that you may need.
