What to Expect During
Echocardiogram
What you can expect varies slightly by the type of ECHO scheduled.
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Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE)
Electrodes will be placed on your chest to record the electrical activity of the heart via an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG). The technician will place some gel on your chest and then move a wand (a transducer) over your chest area. The gel helps the transducer to move smoothly and provides better quality images. You may be asked to turn on one side to get the best picture.
Exercise Stress Echocardiogram
An exercise echocardiogram is a diagnostic test that enables the physician to see images of the heart while it is at work. For an exercise echocardiogram, a standard transthoracic ECHO is performed. You will then be asked to walk on a treadmill (which will become increasingly faster and steeper) for a specified amount of time until a particular level of exercise is achieved. Once your heart is working at a certain capacity, another transthoracic ECHO will be performed. This test is usually performed under the supervision of a cardiologist, who can monitor your vital signs while the test is in progress.
Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram
The Dobutamine stress test functions in the same manner as an exercise stress echocardiogram, except that the heart’s workload is not increased through physical exercise. Instead, a medication (Dobutamine) is given that increases the heart rate and workload, simulating physical exercise. After your initial echocardiogram is performed, your doctor will administer the Dobutamine through your intravenous (IV) line. You will feel your heart rate increase. Once your heart workload has increased to a specific level, your physician will perform another echocardiogram. This test is particularly helpful for people with who have physical limitations.
Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)
Because this procedure is more invasive, you will be given a mild sedative to help you relax during the test. You will probably receive this through an IV line. A numbing medicine will be sprayed in your throat to help make the procedure more comfortable. The transducer, attached to the tip of a thin, flexible tube, will be inserted down your throat and into your esophagus (the organ that connects your throat to your stomach). Your heart rate and other vital signs will be monitored. The test will last about an hour.
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