Echocardiogram

What is an Echocardiogram? (Echo)

What is echocardiography?

Echocardiography is also referred to as cardiac ultrasound. Cardiac ultrasound is a diagnostic technique which uses high frequency sound waves to visualize the heart.

Why does my child need an echocardiogram?

The echocardiogram enables us to look at the inside structure of the heart. It also allows us to estimate the strength and thickness of the heart muscle, and the size of the chambers of the heart. It identifies the speed and direction of blood flow within the heart chambers and across the heart valves. The image is recorded on videotape for interpretation by physician.

An echocardiogram can help the doctor make a diagnosis or provide important information necessary in the management of your child’s heart condition.

Does an echocardiogram hurt?

No. An echocardiogram is a painless procedure.

What will happen during the echocardiogram?

Your child will be asked to remove the clothing from the upper body and to wear a hospital gown that opens in the front. A transducer (looks like a small microphone) will be lubricated with warm gel and the technician will place it on various areas of the chest.

Your child may be asked to lie in different positions. Electrodes (round patches) will be placed on the chest to record a simultaneous electrocardiogram (EKG).

There are no significant risks associated with echocardiogram.

The test will take 20-45 minutes.

In order to perform an accurate study, your child needs to be relaxed and as still as possible. If this it not possible, it may be necessary to give your child a mild sedative.

When will the results of the echocardiogram be available?

The test results will be carefully reviewed and interpreted by the Pediatric Cardiologist.

The Pediatric Cardiologist will discuss the results with you during the conclusion of the office visit. Your family doctor or pediatrician will also receive a complete report.