An echocardiogram or echo is a test that uses ultrasound waves to examine
the heart. It is a safe and painless procedure that assists physicians in diagnosing
a variety of heart conditions especially left ventricular function and valve
disorders.
On the day of the test, you should register with Outpatient Registration Area
on the first floor of St. Rita's Medical Center behind the Information Desk.
Plan to arrive thirty minutes before your scheduled testing time. Following
registration, you will be directed to the Echo Lab in Cardiopulmonary Services
on the second floor.
No preparation is required, however you are asked to wear a two-piece outfit. The
test will take approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
For the test, you will undress from the waist up. A hospital gown will be
provided for all female patients. During the test, you will lie on you left
side on a table or cart. A small amount of a warm colorless gel is applied
to the chest to enhance the ultrasound waves. A small microphone-like device
called a transducer is held against the chest. This transducer sends ultrasound
waves that bounce off the various parts of the heart. A computer uses the information
coming from the transducer to construct an image of the heart. The image is
displayed on a television screen and recorded on videotape.
The recordings and measurements will be stored on videotape. This will be
reviewed by a cardiologist within the next 48 hours. A report will be dictated
and sent to the ordering physician and any referring physicians. Results will
be shared with you directly from your ordering physician.
