Echocardiography can also provide information about the pressures within the chambers of the heart and lungs.
What should I expect?
An echocardiogram may take up to 45 minutes to perform. You should not feel pain or discomfort during the test. It does not involve radiation or X-rays. You do not need to specifically prepare for an echocardiogram.
Before the test, you will be asked to undress from the waist up (ie. shirt, singlet or bra may need to be removed) and females will be wearing a gown. During the test, you will lie on an examination bed and small metal disks called electrodes will be placed on your chest so that we can monitor your heart rhythm during the test.
To image the heart, the technician or cardiologist will put a thick gel on your chest and then move a transducer over your chest to send and receive inaudible sound waves. You will also be asked to briefly hold your breath during the test.
Results
All images are reviewed by the Cardiologist trained in echocardiography and a report will be sent to your referring GP or Specialist usually within 72 hours.
Why do your echo at The Cardiologists?
These procedures a firstly done by a very senior echo technician and reported by cardiologists specifically trained in echocardiography. Our Doctors are able to discuss complex images with other members of our medical / cardiology team giving you an highly accurate and complete report. Our specialist Echocardiologist will call your referrer (GP / Specialist) with any significant abnormalities to facilitate prompt treatment.