An ultrasound of the heart is called an Echocardiograph. This procedure is performed by a sonographer who has gained specialist qualifications in Echocardiography and takes approximately half an hour to do.
The wall and chambers of the heart are examined by ultrasound along with the valves. Echocardiography does not look at the coronary arteries.
Is there any preparation?
There is no preparation for Echocardiography however an appointment is required at any of our rooms. Please ring for an appointment and our reception staff will let you know if anything is required of you.
Procedure
You may be required to change into a gown so that we can get to the area required. Ultrasound Gel will be placed onto your skin. This helps us get a good picture of the tissue under your skin.
You may hear some strange sounds coming from the machine. Do not be alarmed. This sound helps the sonographer throughout the examination to assess the blood flow through the chambers of the heart and the valves.
A specialist cardiologist experienced in ultrasound examinations will analyse your images and send a report to your referring doctor. Your referring doctor will then discuss the results with you.
For any questions or further information, do not hesitate to ask the reception staff at Lake Imaging.