Echocardiography
Echocardiography, often simply called an “echo”, is a non-invasive ultrasound scan of your heart. It provides detailed images of your heart’s structure and function in real-time. Our clinic offers advanced echocardiography for a more comprehensive view and Strain echocardiography to assess the subtle movements of your heart muscle. This cutting-edge technology helps us detect and monitor a wide range of heart conditions with greater precision.
What this cardiac test measures
Heart size and shape
Identifying any enlargement or abnormal geometry.
Valve function
Assessing if your heart valves are opening and closing correctly.
Blood flow
Detecting any abnormal blood flow patterns
Pumping function (ejection fraction)
How effectively your heart pumps blood.
Muscle movement (strain)
Subtle changes in heart muscle contraction, indicating early signs of dysfunction.
How It Works
1.
A sonographer will apply a gel to your chest and then move a small handheld device called a transducer over your chest.
2.
This device emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off your heart and are then converted into images on a screen.
3.
The procedure is painless and usually takes about 30-60 minutes. You'll lie comfortably on a bed during the scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it safe?
Yes, echocardiography uses sound waves, not radiation, making it very safe.
Do I need to prepare?
Generally, no special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink as usual.
How long does it take?
Approximately 30-60 minutes.
When will I get the results?
Your cardiologist will review the echocardiogram images and usually send the results to your referring doctor within 24 hours. The findings will be discussed with you either by your referring doctor or by your cardiologist at a follow-up appointment. In some cases, your cardiologist may also review the results with you on the same day.