An echocardiogram builds a moving picture of the heart from ultrasound. The 2D study gives the standard cross-sectional views; the 4D study adds a moving three-dimensional reconstruction, which is particularly useful for valves and for structural abnormalities.
Why it is requested
- Breathlessness or swelling of the ankles
- A murmur heard on examination
- Chest pain or palpitations
- Assessment after a heart attack
- Monitoring known valve disease
- Suspected congenital heart abnormality
- Assessment before surgery
The examination
Allow around 30 to 45 minutes. You undress to the waist and lie on a couch; gel is applied and a probe moved over the chest. There is no radiation, no injection and no preparation needed. You can eat and drink normally beforehand and take your usual medicines.
