About an echocardiogram
An echocardiogram or ‘echo’ is a scan of your heart. It uses high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to produce images of your heart.
The scan is painless and does not use radiation. It has no side effects.
The person performing the scan is called a sonographer.
Preparing for your scan
You do not need to do anything to prepare for this scan.
You can eat and drink as normal on the day and take all your regular medication.
Chaperone
Staff may be male or female.
On week days, we will offer a chaperone.
You are also welcome to bring someone to be with you during the test.
Interpreters
Let us know at least 3 days before your appointment if English is not your first language and you need an interpreter.
We do not allow family or friends to act as interpreters.
Your scan appointment
Appointment times
Aim to arrive 10 minutes early. If you are late you may not be seen.
The scan will take 20 to 40 minutes.
Occasionally, we may ask a second colleague to look at the images. This can increase the appointment time.
You should allow at least one hour in the department.
During the scan
- The sonographer will ask you to undress to your waist. We will offer females a hospital gown that opens at the front. We will respect your privacy while you are getting changed.
- We will ask you to lie on your left side, on the couch. Tell the sonographer if you cannot lie on your left side.
- If you have limited mobility and cannot transfer from a wheelchair to the couch, we will try to do the scan while you are in the chair.
- We will attach stickers to your chest and connect them to the echo machine. These monitor your heart during the scan.
- The lights in the room will be dimmed so that the pictures on the screen can be seen more clearly.
- We will put clear gel onto areas of your chest, neck and beneath your left breast. We will then slowly move a probe over these areas while viewing the images on the screen.
- Records of the images will be made so that they can be viewed later.
- Afterwards, we will wipe the gel off and leave you to get dressed.
- You will then be free to leave and continue your usual activities.
After the scan
The sonographer may or may not be able to give you the results of the scan immediately.
Usually, we will write a report the same day or within 24 hours. Sometimes the images may need to be discussed with the cardiologist. We will then send the report to the consultant or GP who referred you for the scan.
More information
For further NHS information visit Echocardiogram.
For British Heart Foundation information visit Echocardiogram.
Contact information
Kingston Hospital
Cardiac Investigations Department
Telephone: