Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a cardiac test that employs ultrasound to take images of the heart. Your technologist will place an ultrasound probe on your chest wall and use sound waves aimed at the heart. These sound waves will bounce off of the heart and produce a series of images that will help your doctor understand the size and structure of your heart, the blood flow to your heart as well as the function of the valves in your heart.
Getting Prepared for Your Echocardiogram
What do I need to do?- No special preparation is required.
- Please bring a valid OHIP Card to your appointment.
- Please arrive 10 minutes before your appointment to check in.
Shortly after you check-in, one of our Echo Technologists brings you into the exam room and conducts a brief interview explaining the procedure. You will be asked to remove your shirt and lie flat on the examining table. The technologist will apply wires to monitor your heart rate and use a lubricant on your chest to help improve image quality. The technologist will gently apply pressure to the probe as they take pictures of your heart's size, structure, and blood flow.
If your procedure includes contrast, your technologist will set up an intravenous line in your hand or arm to administer the contrast agent, which improves heart muscle visibility. Contrast adds about 20 to 30 minutes to your procedure time.
How long will it take?Approximately 45 minutes.
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