Echocardiography

An ultrasound scan that shows the structure of your heart and how well it is working.

What is it?

A transthoracic echocardiogram, often called an echo, uses high-frequency sound waves to create moving images of the heart. It can assess heart size, pumping function, heart valves and blood flow. It does not use X-rays or radiation.

Is it for me?

Shortness of breath, ankle swelling or reduced exercise tolerance
A heart murmur or suspected valve problem
Chest symptoms, an abnormal ECG or an enlarged heart
High blood pressure and its effects on the heart
Known heart disease, heart failure or cardiomyopathy
Heart function before or during certain treatments
A congenital or structural heart condition

Important: An outpatient echocardiogram is not intended to assess an acute medical emergency. Call 112 for severe chest pain, collapse or sudden severe breathlessness.

Preparing for your test

You can normally eat, drink and take your medicines as usual
Wear comfortable clothing that is easy to remove from the waist up; a two-piece outfit is usually more convenient than a dress
Bring your referral, medication list and previous cardiac reports if available
Tell reception in advance if you require assistance, an interpreter or have mobility needs

What to expect

You will be asked to undress from the waist up in privacy and will be covered as much as possible
Small ECG electrodes may be attached to your chest to monitor your heart rhythm
You will usually lie on your left side while gel is applied and an ultrasound probe is moved over different areas of your chest
You may be asked to change position, breathe in or out, or briefly hold your breath
You may hear swishing sounds from blood-flow measurements; this is normal

Practical information

Duration: A standard transthoracic echo commonly takes around 30–40 minutes, but complex examinations may take longer.

Discomfort: The test is non-invasive. Firm pressure from the probe may occasionally feel uncomfortable, particularly over the ribs.

Privacy: You may request a chaperone. Please ask when booking if you have a preference regarding the clinician performing the examination.

Results: The images are reviewed and reported by an appropriately trained clinician. Follow-up should be arranged with the referring doctor when needed.

Related services

Ready to book this test? We keep the time between booking and testing to a minimum, so you are never stuck on a long waiting list. Once your test is complete, results are provided as soon as they are ready — no drawn-out wait, and none of the anxiety that comes with it.

Enquire Now
You can also enquire through reception by calling 2145 3973.