An Echocardiogram is a diagnostic procedure that uses ultrasound to look at 2D images of the heart, its chamber size, contractility, blood flow pattern and the motion of the valves and defects of the heart (hole in heart). The picture images enables your cardiologist to determine how well your heart is performing and detect any abnormality present.

Preparation

No preparation or fasting is required.

How the test is done

Your cardiologist will use a transducer (probe) with a bit of gel on the chest wall to look at images of the heart. You will be able to see these images on the TV screen displayed.

A nurse may disrobe you from waist up, and the lights will be dimmed during the procedure to enhance picture quality.

There is no adverse side effect from an echocardiogram even during pregnancy. It is similar to an ultrasound scan during pregnancy.