Echocardiogram
- 20 - 30 mins procedure
- Zero radiation
- Wear comfortable clothing
Everything to know about Echocardiograms
How Echocardiogram scans work
An Echocardiogram, or Cardiac Ultrasound, is used to examine the heart using high frequency sound waves to produce an image. The procedure is harmless and doesn't expose you to any radiation, but may cause some mild discomfort as the probe must be placed between ribs to see the heart.
An Echocardiogram scan is used to examine:
- Heart
What to expect
An echocardiogram is a test that uses ultrasound to take pictures of your heart.
For the procedure you'll be required (if able) to lie on a bed turned onto your left side, with your left arm extended above your head. We understand if this isn't possible due to shoulder or breathing problems; the scan can be adapted to suit your comfort and capability. A small hand-held probe is placed on your chest with coupling gel and moved around to obtain images and measurements of your heart.
The day of the Procedure
Arrive 20 mins prior to appointment
Complete paperwork
Change
Women into a gown
Men remove shirt
The Echocardiogram
20 - 30 mins procedure
After the scan
You're free to leave
Results
Sent to referring doctor
Request an echocardiogram appointment
FAQs
I'm allergic to CT contrast. Can I receive echo contrast?
Yes. Echo contrast is not the same as CT contrast. Echo contrast creates tiny bubbles in your bloodstream that disappear within a few minutes. The most common side effect of echo contrast is back pain shortly after it enters the body. This happens to a small number of patients who receive it.
What happens after the test?
The ultrasound images are reviewed by a cardiologist. The cardiologist writes a report and sends it to your doctor. Then your doctor discusses the results with you.
Is an echocardiogram safe?
Yes. Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to take pictures of your heart. It doesn't expose you to radiation.
Meet Dr Peter Zheng
FRANZCR
Consultant Radiologist, Lumus Imaging, Brisbane
"We are constantly adopting the latest technology and ideas, expanding into regional, rural and metropolitan areas, and attracting professionals with genuine talent and enthusiasm at every level. "