How it works

 

Before the test, the cardiac sonographer will spread gel and apply sticky patches (electrodes) on your chest wall. The sonographer will then apply a device (known as a transducer) on the gel, aiming an ultrasound beam against your heart at different angles in order to obtain a collective set of moving images of your heart produced by the computer. The moving images will be displayed on the monitor which you can see “live”.

 

Why do I need one?

 

An Echo can give vital information on many aspects of the condition of your heart:

 

• It can determine the pumping strength of your heart and reveal any damages to your heart.

 

• It can determine the size of your heart and can give information on the causes if your heart is abnormally enlarged.

 

• It can give information on your heart valves and determine if they are functioning properly.

 

• It can give information on any potential heart defects, any holes and abnormal connections in your heart.