Transthoracic Echocardiogram

Quick facts

• A transthoracic echocardiogram is a standard test to look at the structure and function of the heart.

• It’s also called a heart ultrasound, cardiac ultrasound, echo, cardiac echo or 2D echo.

• The scan takes images and videos of the chest area which are used to diagnose many conditions.

• You can eat and drink as normal beforehand.

• The test usually takes 45-60 minutes.  

Summary

• A transthoracic echocardiogram is an ultrasound of the heart. It’s also called an echo, cardiac echo, 2D echo or cardiac ultrasound.

• We use this test to assess your heart valves, heart muscle and blood flow in and out of the heart.

• An echocardiogram is one of the standard tests we use to evaluate the structure and function of the heart.

• The scan produces a series of valuable images and videos of your heart that we can use to diagnose many conditions.

How to prepare

• You don’t need to do anything special before your test.

• You can eat and drink as normal beforehand.

• You may prefer to wear a two-piece outfit as we scan your chest.

• You’ll be offered a gown to wear.

What to expect

• You’ll be asked to lie on a bed and the sonographer will place a special probe on various parts of the chest wall to see the heart from different angles.

• You’ll be asked to lie on your side or back, depending on the area being scanned.

• The sonographer will direct you to breathe in and hold your breath several times. This helps to record the best pictures.

The three main areas we record images for are:

• The left side of the sternum

• The lower left side of the ribs

• Under the ribcage

The sonographer may take images from other areas if needed, depending on the reason for the scan.

Timing

The transthoracic echocardiogram usually takes 45-60 minutes.