Echocardiogram

   1. Purpose of Test

The echo gives doctors useful information about the heart. For example, the size of the heart chambers and the thickness of the walls, the heart’s pumping strength, the valve function, and other heart conditions.

   2. What to expect during procedure

During an echo test, a small microphone-like device, called a transducer, is held against the chest. The transducer sends ultrasound waves that bounce off the various parts of the heart.

The transducer picks up the reflected sound waves and sends them to a computer. The computer turns the echos into a moving image of the heart. The image is displayed on a monitor screen, and it can also be recorded on video or printed on paper.

   3. How to prepare for test

None necessary

   4. When results will be available

If a doctor is performing the test, you may be able to ge the results before you leave. Otherwise, your own doctor will discuss the results with you during a future office visit.