ECHOCARDIOGRAM
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound examination of the heart and is a key component of the routine evaluation of suspected or known cardiac disease.
It uses sound waves to assess the heart’s structure and function, including investigating any damage sustained from a heart attack, reasons behind chest pain and how your heart valves are functioning.
Your doctor may suggest an echocardiogram if he or she suspects problems with the valves or chambers of your heart or to determine if heart problems are the cause of symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain.
You will be asked to lie on a bed and small ECG patches will be applied to your chest.
Ultrasound gel is used to improve contact and imaging quality. The transducer will be applied firmly against the chest wall and will be positioned in different areas of your chest throughout the scan to obtain the necessary images.
You will be asked to change positions, take a deep breath in, or to hold a breath out. This will only last approximately five seconds at time.
- Your original referral or request form
- Medicare and any Government concession pension or health care cards
- Previous relevant imaging
Please do not apply any body lotion or sunscreen to your chest before the appointment. For your comfort we recommend you wear two-piece clothing.
The scan itself will take approximately 30–40 minutes.
