Understanding An Echocardiogram: A Patient’s Guide
At VIC Heart Health, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge about their health and the procedures they undergo. An echocardiogram, or "echo" as it is often called, is a critical diagnostic tool we use to assess the heart’s structure and function. This guide will demystify the echocardiogram process, explain its necessity, and highlight the advanced technology we employ to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram is a type of ultrasound test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of your heart. This test allows us at VIC Heart Health to observe the heart beating, and the blood flowing through the heart valves, chambers, and surrounding vessels. It’s an indispensable tool for assessing the size, structure, and function of your heart. It also helps us check for abnormalities such as valve regurgitation, heart valve stenosis (narrowing), and signs of heart diseases like tumours or inflammation of the pericardium.
Why is an Echocardiogram Necessary?
Patients are often referred for an echocardiogram to assess various aspects of heart health, including:
Function of the heart valves and to check for regurgitation.
Size, structure, and overall function of the heart.
Stenosis of the heart valves and major vessels.
Presence of tumours, blood clots, or inflammation.
Monitoring changes in heart conditions over time.
This test is crucial for diagnosing heart issues early, which can lead to more effective and timely treatments.
What Happens During an Echocardiogram?
The procedure is simple and safe, with little to no health risks involved. Here’s what you can expect during your echocardiogram at VIC Heart Health:
Preparation: You will be asked to undress to the waist and wear a gown for modesty.
Setup: You’ll lie on your side on the exam table, and three ECG electrodes will be attached to monitor your heart’s activity.
Procedure: The room will be darkened to enhance image quality. A sonographer applies a water-based gel to your chest and then uses a small transducer to send and receive ultrasound waves, creating images of your heart.
During the test: You might be asked to hold your breath or adjust your position slightly to get clearer images. The only sensation you’ll experience is the pressure from the transducer moving over your chest.
How Long Does It Take and How Do You Prepare?
The echocardiography process takes approximately 30-45 minutes. For a regular echo, there’s no special preparation needed - you can eat, drink, and take medications as you normally would.
What Happens After an Echocardiogram?
After your test, our specialist reporting Cardiologist reviews the images and prepares a detailed report. This report is sent back to your GP within 24 hours of the exam, ensuring that you receive prompt and effective follow-up care.
At VIC Heart Health, we use the latest echocardiogram technology to ensure the highest quality of cardiac imaging, which is part of our commitment to providing exceptional patient care. Our goal is not just to perform tests but to ensure that each patient understands their results and the next steps in their cardiac health journey.
If you or someone you know needs an echocardiogram, we encourage you to reach out to us. Learn more about how VIC Heart Health can support your heart health needs by contacting us today.