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Patient information Echocardiogram What is an Echocardiogram? An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart. It is sometimes just called an ‘echo’. Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to view internal structures of the body. An echocardiogram will enable the anatomy and the functionality of the heart to be visualised and will allow the cardiac physiologist to view the heart muscle, chambers and other internal structures such as the valves. Who will I see? Your examination will be undertaken by a Cardiac Physiologist. A Cardiac Physiologist is a highly trained individual who is accredited to the British Society of Echocardiographers. They will undertake and formulate the report on the ultrasound scan of your heart. They will be able to answer any questions you may have about your examination. Are there any risks? No, there are no known risks, so it is considered to be a very safe examination. Am I required to make any special preparations? No, there are no special preparations needed prior to your echocardiogram scan. You should tell the centre in advance, if you have had a similar scan recently. Can I bring a relative/friend? Yes, you may be accompanied. When you arrive Please go to the reception desk in the centre. You will be shown where to wait until collected by a Cardiac Physiologist or other member of staff. Within the centre, the toilets are clearly signposted should you need to use them at any time during your visit. Upon collection You will be taken straight into the examination room where you will be introduced to the Cardiac Physiologist. They will then ask you to remove certain items of clothing and any jewellery that maybe covering the chest area. You will be provided with a modesty cover or a gown to ensure that your privacy and dignity is maintained at all times during the examination. What happens during the scan? You will be asked to lie down on an examination couch. The lights in the room may be dimmed so that the Cardiac Physiologist can see the images on the screen more clearly. A gel will be applied to your skin over the area to be scanned. The gel allows the probe to slide easily over the skin and helps to produce clearer pictures. The ultrasound gel used is washable and hypoallergenic. You may be asked to assume various body positions as the examination is performed. There is help for those who find this difficult. You may be asked to take deep breaths in and out and to hold your breath for a few moments during the scan. Will it be uncomfortable? The echocardiogram scan does not produce any discomfort and apart from the ultrasound gel and probe placed on your skin, you will not feel anything. How long will it take? The whole examination should take no longer than about 20-30 minutes. Are there any side effects? No. You can drive home afterwards and return to work straight away. Can I eat and drink afterwards? Yes, do so normally. When will I get the results? The echocardiogram images will be examined and a report of the findings prepared. This will normally take less than two days to reach your referring doctor, however please allow at least 7 – 10 days before you contact your doctor to allow them time to review the report. If you have a query If you have any questions, then please ask the Cardiac Physiologist or alternatively contact any member of staff within the centre for assistance. Can I leave feedback on my experience? Yes, please complete a patient experience survey when you have finished your examination. Appointment reminder message A large number of appointments are wasted every year, where patients either forget the date and time of their visit or simply do not inform the centre that they are unable to attend as originally expected. If you or your referring clinician have supplied Care UK with a mobile telephone number, we may send you an SMS reminder message 24 hours before your scheduled appointment. This message will remind you about your appointment and will ask you to contact the centre if you are not expecting to attend as originally planned. Please notify your Care UK diagnostic centre if you wish to opt out of receiving this reminder message. careuk.com Reviewed March 2013. Next review due March 2015. GENER0016