Echocardiogram
An Echocardiogram (Echo) is a test that uses high frequency sound waves to create images of your heart. Echocardiograms are performed to evaluate the valves and chambers of the heart in a noninvasive manner. This procedure aides in the diagnosis of cardiomyopathies, the detection of atrial tumors, or pericardial effusions. It is also used to evaluate cardiac wall motion and function after a heart attack.
A specially trained technologist will place some gel and an instrument called a transducer on your ribs near your sternum. The transducer will be directed toward your heart. You may be asked to change positions or breathe a little differently to obtain the proper images. All of the information picked up by the transducer is transmitted into electrical impulses and relayed into a machine where the image is displayed and recorded. There is no preparation needed for the test.
The recording and images are then shown to a cardiologist for interpretation.
Echocardiograms are available every Wednesday afternoon at Jones Regional Medical Center.
Contact (319) 481-6369 for scheduling or questions.
