An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart, used to assess the size and function of the heart chambers, the thickness and movement of the heart muscle, and the structure of the heart valves. It is one of the most widely used and informative tests in cardiology.
Your cardiologist may recommend an echocardiogram to investigate breathlessness, a heart murmur, suspected heart failure or valve disease, to assess heart muscle function after a cardiac event, or as part of a broader cardiovascular assessment.
Echocardiography is performed and reported on site at our Alexandra Hills clinic, so most patients complete both consultation and testing in one visit. For preparation details ahead of your appointment, see our Diagnostics page.
This test is for patients referred by their GP or cardiologist to investigate a specific symptom or condition, or as part of ongoing monitoring of a known heart condition such as heart failure or valve disease.
No. An ECG (electrocardiogram) records the heart’s electrical activity using sensors on the skin. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound imaging to show the heart’s structure and movement. Your cardiologist may use one or both, depending on what is being investigated.
No, an echocardiogram is a non invasive ultrasound test and does not involve any pain or radiation.
t can help assess heart failure, valve disease, structural heart conditions and overall heart muscle function, among other things.
Your cardiologist will review the images and discuss the findings with you, timing can vary depending on your specific circumstances.
If your GP has recommended an echocardiogram, ask them to send a referral directly to BK Heart.
