Echocardiogram: Procedure, Preparation & Duration
Many doctors request an echocardiogram for older people, patients with possible heart problems, or several other reasons. The echocardiography test involves an ultrasound machine that produces live images of your heart and its chambers, called an echocardiogram. There is nothing to worry about when preparing for the echo test. If you are taking an echo test, learning about it in advance will help you work with your doctor more easily.
Here is everything you need to know about the procedure, preparation, and duration of the
echocardiogram.
What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a graphic outline of heart movements. During the test, the sonographer uses a hand-held device with high-frequency ultrasound waves that help them evaluate the pumping motions of the patient’s heart. The echo test ordered by your doctor may involve Doppler ultrasound and color Doppler to assess blood flow across the heart’s valves.
Why is an Echocardiogram Performed?
An echocardiogram helps doctors assess your heart's overall health and determine if the valves and chambers are functioning correctly. They can also evaluate the progress of ongoing treatments and any potential disease. Other conditions determined with an echocardiogram are myocardial diseases, pericardial diseases, infective endocarditis, cardiac masses, and congenital heart disease.
What is the Echocardiogram Procedure Like?
- Before the test: Your healthcare provider will explain the entire procedure to you in detail, along with the potential complications and side effects in your specific case. You may put forward your concerns during this time. You will be taken to the testing room, where you will undress from the waist up and wear the hospital gown.
- During the test: A cardio sonographer will then place three electrodes on your chest that will be connected to an electrocardiograph (EKG) machine. The EKG machine will chart your heart’s electrical activities during the test. Your sonographer will ask you to lie on your left side and use a sound wave transducer with a gel on your chest. The gel enhances the imaging process and improves visualization. You may be asked to change your positions and hold your breath several times from different angles.
How to Prepare for Echocardiogram?
You can eat and drink normally for most echocardiogram tests. However, for a transesophageal echocardiogram, your doctor will ask you to not eat anything eight hours before the test to avoid vomiting. You can wear any clothes since you will be changing into a hospital gown. You will be given a locker but you should avoid bringing any valuables.
What is the Duration of the Procedure?
The echocardiogram procedure takes around twenty minutes. After which, you are free to go home.
About Open MRI 17-
Do you need an echo test? Open MRI 17 is an Outpatient Diagnostic Imaging Center located on Route 17 in Paramus, New Jersey. We provide high-quality imaging services, including MRI, CT Scans, Ultrasound, Echocardiogram, and X-Ray. Excellent patient care, comfort, and experience are some of our top priorities. From the moment you walk in till the moment you leave, you will be greeted with a smile and treated like family. We provide the results of the tests to you and your healthcare provider quickly, too.
Visit
our website, call us at (201) 368-2005, or
email us to learn more and schedule an appointment for any of our services.
