Echocardiogram

Echocardiogram - What it is

What is an echocardiogram?

Echocardiogram using ultrasound | SingHealth

An echocardiogram is a diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to take moving pictures of the heart and its related structures (e.g., valves). The pictures or images appearing on the screen may be in black and white or colour.

From these pictures, doctors can measure the size and function of heart chambers, study the motion of heart valves and assess the efficacy of the contraction of heart muscles and the blood flow pattern across the valves and within the heart chambers.

These information and pictures are helpful to your doctor in determining how well your heart is working and whether there are any abnormalities.

Echocardiogram - Other Information

Is the test safe?

There is no known harmful or proven adverse effect from echocardiogram and can be performed repeatedly. There is also no known danger to either pregnant mothers or the foetus.

This test is similar to the ultrasound test that pregnant mothers undergo.

How can you prepare for an echocardiogram?

There are no preparations required for this test unless otherwise informed by your doctor.

What can you expect during an echocardiogram?

The test is performed by a trained Cardiac Physiologist/Technologist, and will be subsequently reviewed by a cardiologist trained in echocardiography.

As the examination involves placing a transducer on the chest wall, you will be required to change into a hospital gown. You are required to remove only the top part of your clothes (including your bra for the ladies).

Water soluble gel will be applied onto the chest wall to enhance the picture quality. The room light will be dimmed to reduce glare and improve the viewing of the pictures. You will be informed if there is a need for an injection during the test.

The examination may take approximately 30 to 45 minutes, excluding waiting time.

SingHealth experts share more about echocardiograms:

References

Echocardiogram (ECHO). www.heart.org. (2024, October 14). https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/heart-attack/diagnosing-a-heart-attack/echocardiogram-echo
Echocardiogram. Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2024, September 12). https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/treatment-tests-and-therapies/echocardiogram
Echocardiogram. ucsfhealth.org. (2024, August 6). https://www.ucsfhealth.org/medical-tests/echocardiogram
Echocardiography - conditions and treatments. Children's National Hospital. (n.d.). https://www.childrensnational.org/get-care/health-library/echocardiography