Echocardiograph

An echocardiogram is a procedure in which ultrasound is used to examine the heart. This is known as a Two Dimensional (2-D) Echo and is capable of displaying a cross sectional slice of the beating heart, which includes chambers, valves and the major blood vessels. A Doppler Echo is also employed to assess blood flow through the various chambers of the heart and the functional status of the four values in the heart.

Prior to the procedure, the patient partially disrobes to the waist and is covered by a privacy gown. The patient then lies on his/her back on a special examining table designed for echo procedures. Electrodes are attached to specific areas on the patient's chest to record a continuous electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG). The technician then applies a colorless gel to the top of a specially designed transducer which is placed on the patient's chest. The technician uses the transducer to obtain images through different areas of the chest. The patient may also be asked by the technician to move from his/her back to lie on either side or breathe slowly or hold his/her breath, which helps obtain high quality images. The technician will constantly be viewing the images on a monitor to assist in the proper movement of the transducer. These images are later transferred to a CD providing a permanent record of the examination that a cardiologist reads and uses to prepare a final report.
An echocardiogram is an extremely safe procedure. There are no known health risks with this type of procedure. The procedure may take up to 45 minutes to complete.
A physician does not routinely have to be present during the procedure. The procedure results are typically available from 7 to 10 days after the test. Once the report from the cardiologist is submitted to the patient's doctor, he or she will review the results and then communicate with the patient by telephone or mail.