Echocardiogram

What is an Echocardiogram?

Your doctor has suggested you have an echocardiogram as part of your evaluation at National Jewish. An echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. The ultrasound shows the structures and functions of the heart muscle and heart valves from different angles. It does this by using sound waves.

What is an Echocardiogram with Agitated Saline?

It is a simple mixture of saline and a small amount of air that is shaken manually to create microbubbles. Its main purpose is in a "bubble study" for the detection of right-to-left shunts (e.g., patent foramen ovale or atrial septal defects); if bubbles appear on the left side of the heart, a shunt is present.

What is an Echocardiogram with Contrast?

Your doctor may also want to use an enhancing agent, or “contrast,” with the echocardiogram.

Definity is an FDA-approved, non-iodine-based, ultrasound enhancing agent used to see the flow of blood through the heart and the heart muscle better and can help your doctor determine a diagnosis. Your doctor will use this information to determine the best treatment for you.

How do you get ready for the test?

• Wear clothing you can remove from the waist up. You will be given a gown to wear.
• There are no restrictions on food, drink, or medications before the test.

What is done during the test?

The sonographer will explain the test to you before you start. Ask questions if you don’t understand. Before the test you will need to remove all clothing from the waist up. You will be given a hospital gown to wear.

If you are having an echocardiogram with agitated saline or contrast the nurse will start an IV. You will feel a prick when the IV is started.

The echocardiogram does not hurt. You will lie still on a table during the procedure. The technologist will have you lie on your left side and back during the procedure.

The technologist will place small adhesives electrodes on your chest. Gel will be placed on the ultrasound probe and then on your chest. The probe is what makes the sound waves. The probe will be moved around your chest while you are lying on your left side and back.
 

What should you do after the test?

You can resume your normal activity after the test is complete.

How long will the test take?

An echocardiogram will take about 60-75 minutes.

How do you get to your test?

Check in before your scheduled appointment at the admissions desk just inside the main entrance. An admissions representative will validate your insurance information, have you sign required paperwork, and collect any required co-payments. Patients who arrive late may need to be rescheduled.

If you have any questions, you can contact the Cardiology Department at 303-270-2670.

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