Private Echocardiogram

The most common type of echocardiogram works in a similar way to an ultrasound during pregnancy. You'll be asked to lie on your left side during the scan. Your specialist will apply a gel to your chest and place an ultrasound probe on the areas of your chest above where your heart is.

Sound waves from the probe bounce off the structures of your heart to produce a moving image. If your consultant suspects you have a hole in your heart, they may inject a small amount of sterile water mixed with air into a vein in your arm to help visualise any holes. The whole procedure takes between 15 minutes and 30 minutes.

Your consultant or physiologist will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have. Usually there isn't any special preparation needed for an echocardiogram.

The scan itself shouldn't be painful, and you'll be able to go home right after your appointment. Once your consultant has analysed the results of your scan, they'll discuss them with you. They'll also let you know about any next steps, including further tests if needed.