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Echocardiogram(Echo; Heart Ultrasound; Ultrasound of the Heart)
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Editorial Staff and Contributors DefinitionAn echocardiogram is an image test of the heart. It can show the size, shape, and motion of the heart. The test can also show how blood flows through the heart and blood vessels.
There are different types of echocardiograms such as:
Reasons for TestAn echocardiogram may be used to:
Possible ComplicationsThere are no major problems with this test. Types of echocardiogram, like stress, may have specific risk. What to ExpectPrior to TestYour doctor may review previous tests. It will help decide what type of test is best. Description of TestThis is a process for a basic echocardiogram. A gel is put on your chest. A small, hand-held device is pressed and moved against your skin. You will not feel anything except the device on your skin. Images of the heart will appear on a screen in the room. The doctor may move the device around. It will help to get a better view of different areas. You may be asked to change positions, and slowly breathe in or out, or hold your breath. After TestThe gel is wiped from your chest. If you are well, you can go home. How Long Will It Take?30 to 60 minutes Will It Hurt?No ResultsYour doctor will talk to you about the results. Call Your DoctorCall your doctor if you have worsening heart symptoms. If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away. RESOURCES:American Heart Association https://www.heart.org American Society of Echocardiography https://www.asecho.org CANADIAN RESOURCES:Health Canada https://www.canada.ca Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada https://www.heartandstroke.ca References:Echocardiogram (echo). American Heart Association website. Available at: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/echocardiogram-echo. Accessed March 26, 2021. Echocardiography. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute website. Available at:
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/echocardiography. Accessed March 26, 2021. General ultrasound.
Radiology Info—Radiologic Society of North America website. Available at:
https://www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info.cfm?PG=genus. Accessed March 26, 2021. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). EBSCO DynaMed Plus website. Available at: ...(Click grey area to select URL) Accessed March 26, 2021. Last reviewed March 2021 by
EBSCO Medical Review Board
Michael J. Fucci, DO, FACC Last Updated: 3/26/2021 | |