Echocardiogram
Echocardiography (or heart ultrasound) provides the pediatric cardiologist with moving images of your child’s heart. It can let the doctor know how the heart is contracting and whether there are heart defects such as holes within the heart or narrowed valves. Echocardiograms are done for many of the same reasons as electrocardiograms, providing additional information in diagnosing an enlarged heart, ischemia, pericarditis, valve disease, chest trauma, etc.
The echocardiogram works by using high-frequency sound waves that are reflected off the surfaces of the heart, and a picture is created on a TV monitor. The echocardiogram is non-invasive and performed by a specially trained pediatric cardiac sonographer. Electrodes are placed on the chest to monitor the ECG. Then, a transducer (which is like a microphone) is placed on the chest with warmed gel, two-dimensional and color-enhanced images then appear on the screen. This echocardiogram is similar to those done on pregnant women to see the unborn baby (See fetal echocardiogram). No radiation is involved in echocardiography, and the procedure can be performed on infants, children and adults to get information about how the heart is working.
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) may be ordered by the cardiologist when more invasive imaging is required. Again this uses sound waves, and the imaging is through the esophagus. This procedure requires a longer visit under sedation, and a pediatric cardiologist performs the echocardiogram. At Children’s Memorial, only board-certified pediatric anesthesiologists are responsible for your child’s care.
The Echocardiography Laboratory staff at Children’s Memorial is dedicated to providing the highest standards for patient echocardiograms.
Find more information about echocardiography, or cardiac ultrasound, please go to the following link: American Society of Echocardiography
Frequently asked questions
- How long does an echocardiogram take?
The test will last at least 1 hour. Please note that appointments for toddlers are best scheduled during their nap time so they may fall asleep during the test.
- Are parents allowed in the procedure room with children?
Yes, parents are expected to be present in the procedure room during the exam. Tests are more successful when the parents are present and help to ease your child's fear and anxiety.
- What should I bring to the appointment?
Please bring bottle for feeding, diapers, familiar toy, and pacifier. Please note that Children's Memorial Hospital also has a selection of children’s DVDs and VHS tapes for your child to watch during the procedure.
- How should I dress my child for an echocardiogram?
Please dress your child comfortably for their appointment. However, please keep in mind that the sonographers will need access to your child’s chest and belly during the exam.