Transthoracic echocardiogram (Echo)

A transthoracic echocardiogram (echo) is an ultrasound of the heart. Performed by one of our cardiac sonographers, an echo machine and probe will be used to take real-time images or videos of your heart, to help determine both its structure, and function.

During the test, you be asked to put on one of our gowns and lie on your side on the bed. The sonographer will proceed to scan your heart placing gel and an ultrasound wand on your chest area.

The test provides detail on a person:

• heart chambers and walls (size and thickness)
• valves (observing how well they open and close)
• pumping strength (evaluating how effectively the heart pumps blood)
• blood flow (it checks the speed and direction of blood flow).

An echo may be recommended when a person experiences:

• Shortness of breath
• Chest pain
• Known heart failure
• Congenital heart defects
• Heart mumurs
• Has previously had a heart attack

The cardiologist will review all the images and will send a full report to your referring doctor.