An echo (echocardiogram) 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.
A pediatric echocardiogram may be performed in conjunction with an appointment
in the Pediatric Specialty Clinic for Cardiology.
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 45 to 90 minutes . You will undress from
the waist up; a hospital gown will be provided for all female patients. You
will then lie on your 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. The interpretation of a pediatric echo will take
longer than the normal 48 hours. A report will be dictated and sent to the
ordering and any referring physicians.
