An echocardiogram is a non-invasive Ultrasound procedure used to assess the heart's function and structures. Ultrasound is a method of obtaining images of structures within your body using high frequency sound waves. The sound wave echoes through the body, these waves are displayed and recorded as real-time images via a transducer (probe) that is placed directly on the skin or inside a body opening

How should you prepare and what to expect

You may be asked to wear a gown during the exam or you may be allowed to wear your own clothing if it is loose-fitting and has no metal fasteners. The technologist will apply a thin layer of gel to the skin so that the ultrasound waves are transmitted from the transducer through the gel into the body.