Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram (echo) is a painless procedure that uses ultrasound to produce moving images of your heart. It is a useful test for checking the structure of your heart and to see how well it is functioning.
Leaflet Details
| Title | Echocardiogram |
| Department | Clinical Measurements |
| Author(s) | C Camargo |
| Review Date | September 2025 |
| Next Review | September 2027 |
| Download | A5 Booklet PDF |
| Accessibility Options | Click on the Recite Me button to show our accessibility resources |
Patient Information
What is an Echocardiogram?
An echocardiogram (echo) is a painless procedure that uses ultrasound to produce moving images of your heart. It is a useful test for checking the structure of your heart and to see how well it is functioning.
How do I prepare for the test?
You may wish to wear loose clothing that can be easily removed.
What does the test involve?
Please ask a member of staff if you require a chaperone during your appointment.
You will be asked to remove your clothes to your waist and put on a hospital gown (if required). You will be required to lie on your back on your left side. Three sticky electrodes will be attached to your chest.
An ultrasound probe with ultrasound gel is placed onto your chest to get a moving picture of your heart. Harmless high frequency sounds are produced near the skin. You will not feel anything, and the sound waves will not affect your body in any way. They go through the skin, bounce back from part of the heart, and produce an echo that comes back to the probe.
You may feel a gentle pressure around the chest and in the abdomen area from the ultrasound probe. The procedure is carried out in hospital by a cardiologist or by a trained cardiac physiologist in the procedure.
How long will the test take?
The test will usually take 30-40 minutes but can sometimes take longer.
What happens after the test?
Your results will be sent to your referring physician, which may be a Consultant or your General practitioner (GP).
The results will be reviewed, and a letter outlining the findings will be sent to you. You will receive a copy of this letter.
Please allow 2-4 weeks for this process.
If you have not received your letter within 6 weeks, please contact your GP.
Contact Details
For more information please contact:
- The Cardiology Department: 01932 722530
(Monday - Friday 9am-5pm)
For more information, the following websites are recommended:
- British Heart Foundation: https://www.bhf.org.uk
- British Cardiovascular Society: https://britishcardiovascularsociety.org.uk/
