Echo/Doppler

An echocardiogram (often called an echo) is a painless ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create moving pictures of your heart.

It assesses your heart’s structure, its valves and pumping function in real time.

Your doctor may request an echocardiogram to:

• Investigate shortness of breath, chest pain, dizziness, or palpitations
• Assess heart valve problems (leakage or narrowing)
• Measure heart pumping strength (ejection fraction)
• Monitor known heart conditions
• Check the heart after a heart attack, infection, or surgery
• Assess causes of heart murmurs
• Monitor the effects of certain medications or treatments

An echocardiogram can provide information about:

• Size and thickness of the heart chambers
• Heart valve structure and function
• Heart muscle movement and strength
• Blood flow through the heart
• Pressure within the heart
• Fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion)

Yes. An Echocardiogram is very safe.

It uses ultrasound (not radiation) and has no known risks or side effects, including for pregnant patients.

No special preparation is required:

• You may eat, drink, and take medications as normal
• Wear comfortable clothing (you will undress from the waist up and be given a patient gown to wear)
• Avoid applying lotions or oils to your chest on the day, if possible

• You will lie on an examination bed, usually on your left side
• Small adhesive ECG dots may be placed on your chest
• A Cardiac Sonographer will apply gel and move a probe over your chest
• You may be asked to breathe in, breathe out, or briefly hold your breath

The test is non-invasive and generally painless, though you may feel mild pressure from the probe.

Most Echocardiograms take up to 40 minutes.

More complex studies may take slightly longer.

No. An Echocardiogram should not be painful.

Some patients may feel mild pressure where the probe is applied, but it is generally very comfortable.

Yes. You can return to normal activities immediately after the test, including driving and work.

The test is performed by a qualified Cardiac Sonographer with specialist training in heart ultrasound.

Your results are then reviewed and formally reported by a Cardiologist.

A Cardiologist will analyse your Echocardiogram.

Please allow up to 5 business days for your results to be with your referring Doctor.

A detailed report is sent to your referring Doctor, who will discuss the results with you.

Urgent or unexpected findings are communicated promptly.

In most cases, Medicare provides a rebate when:

• You have a valid referral from a GP or Specialist
• The test meets Medicare eligibility criteria

Any out-of-pocket costs will be explained to you before your appointment.

Please let the Sonographer know immediately if you feel:

• Short of breath
• Dizzy or light-headed
• Chest discomfort

Your safety is always the priority.

If you need to change your appointment, please contact WA Cardiology as early as possible so the time can be offered to another patient.

If you have any questions before or after your echocardiogram, please contact WA Cardiology – the team will be happy to help.