A transthoracic echocardiogram (also called an "echo") is an ultrasound examination of the heart. Ultrasound (high frequency sound waves-not heard by the human ear) is sent into the body to outline tissue organs. In this test the sound waves are "bounced off" the heart and sent back as images that visualize cardiac structure and function and record blood flow within the heart.

An echocardiogram gives information about the size, position, movements of the valves and chambers and the speed of blood flow through the heart. It can be used to help diagnose abnormalities of the heart such as valve problems, enlargement or reduced function of the heart chambers, disorders of the pericardium (the sack around the heart) and many other conditions.


Pre-Registration and Testing Locations

Please call 2 days before the date your test is scheduled to confirm your appointment. At this time we can also answer questions you may have. Please have your referring physician complete the echo order form. Plan to arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled time of your test. Bring your hospital and insurance cards with you. Go directly to the test location. Echocardiograms are performed at two locations:

• NewYork-Presbyterian Hospital/Weill Cornell Medical Center
  Echocardiography Laboratory
  Starr Pavilion
  520 East 70th Street, off York Avenue
  New York, NY 10021
  Take the Starr elevators to the 4th floor, make a right and follow the signs to room K-425.


• The Weill Greenberg Center
  1305 York Avenue (corner of E70 Street and York Avenue)
  New York, NY 10021
  Echocardiograms are performed on the 8th floor.

Before the Echocardiogram

Prior to the echocardiogram:

• Do not apply lotions, oils or powders to the chest area
• You may eat and drink normally prior to having the test done
• You may take prescribed medications

Tell the doctor at the TEE laboratory about all medications, allergies to medications and your medical history (including peptic ulcer, difficulty swallowing, esophageal disease, prior heart surgery, or problem with bleeding) before the test.


During the Echocardiogram

The test is usually performed in a darkened room. You will be asked to lie on your back, your left side and/or sit up. A lubricating gel will be applied to your skin over the heart area. A small smooth instrument (called a transducer) will be moved and/or tilted gently across your chest in various positions during the exam. The transducer picks up the sound waves from your heart and a live image of your heart is displayed on a TV monitor. At times during the exam you will hear a "swishing" sound (called Doppler) coming from the machine. This is the blood flow as it moves through the heart valves. There is no pain or discomfort during the test. Test time is approximately 30-45 minutes.


Contact


Cardiac Echocardiography Laboratory
Starr 4, Cardiovascular Center
520 East 70th Street
New York, NY 10021

Telephone: (212) 746-4655