These scans may be used to evaluate new cardiac findings such as cardiac murmurs, for any likely decrease in cardiac function such as increasing shortness of breath, or to rule out scenario’s that may need further intervention.

Echocardiograms are also used for surveillance of cardiac function for patients with specific pathologies such as Aortic Stenosis, or cardiac failure.

If you are unsure why you have been referred, please chat to your referrer.

How do I prepare for the examination?

Echocardiograms require no specific preparation. You can continue your normal medications and eat and drink normally.

Prior to the procedure

We require a referral form from your GP or Doctor.  Once we have this, we will contact you to make an appointment. The time taken for the procedure is approximately 60 minutes, and these are currently scheduled on a Monday.

Please let our staff know if you have had a previous Echocardiogram completed and the whereabouts of this scan as we use previous results for comparison.

On the day of the procedure

Please arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your appointment time to complete our patient questionnaire, and to ensure the examination remains on time.

We will then take your height and weight measurements and ask you to change into a gown.

During the procedure

Echo’s are performed by specially trained Sonographers who specialise in cardiac imaging. At Absolute Radiology, our scans are reported by local Cardiologists.

When you are in the examination room, we will discuss the procedure with you and obtain your consent.

You will need to lie down on the bed and tilt to the left so that your heart is more visible to scan. We will give you pillows to support your position and make you more comfortable.

Prior to starting to scan, we will place some ECG dots on your chest to monitor your heart function and to align timing of imaging with your heart function.

You may be asked to take some deep breaths during the examination.

Post procedure

Following this procedure, there are no restrictions at all. You are able to drive and continue with your normal day following the scan.

If you have any questions prior to your appointment, please call us to speak to our nurse.