Echocardiogram
A non-invasive ultrasound of the heart that evaluates its structure and function, checks heart valves, and detects abnormalities — all without radiation.
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to produce images of your heart. This common test allows your doctor to see your heart beating and pumping blood. The images help identify heart disease and other conditions.
What to expect
You will lie on a padded table while a technician applies a gel to your chest and moves a small device (transducer) across your skin. The test is painless and takes about 30–60 minutes. No special preparation is required.
Why it may be ordered
Your doctor may order an echocardiogram to assess heart valve function, check for fluid around the heart, evaluate heart muscle strength, or investigate symptoms such as shortness of breath or chest pain.