An echocardiogram (ECG), or “ECHO” as it is sometimes called, is a non-invasive ultrasound of the heart to evaluate the valves, chambers, and motions of the heart. The study allows doctors to actually see the heart beating while visualizing structures of the heart. The exam is performed by a trained sonographer and the results are interpreted by the physician.

The patient will be instructed to undress from the waist up and will be appropriately gowned. The patient will lie on the left side throughout the majority of the exam. The patient will be initially hooked up to an EKG machine. The exam is acquired by spreading warm gel on the chest and the ultrasound probe will be pressed lightly against the skin. The sound waves from the ultrasound probe bounce off the heart creating an “echo” that is translated into a graphic video that the radiologist uses for diagnostic purposes.

The exam usually takes about 30-40 minutes

ECHO Prep

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