Services
Echocardiography (Transthoracic)
What is an echocardiography?
This test uses sound waves to obtain moving pictures of the inside of the heart as it beats. A transducer will be placed on your chest over your heart. The transducer sends ultrasound waves through your chest towards your heart. A computer interprets the sound waves as they bounce back to the transducer. This test allows your doctor to monitor how your heart and its valves are functioning. It is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure and it has no known risks or side effects.
This test may be needed if:
You have a heart murmur.
You have had a heart attack.
ou have unexplained chest pains
You have signs or symptoms of heart disease such as shortness of breath, chest discomfort or swelling in the legs.
You have had rheumatic fever.
You have a congenital heart defect.
What you will need to be scheduled for a echocardiography:
A referral letter from your GP
Medicare Card
Please be aware that there have been recent changes relating to the Medicare Benefits Schedule (MBS) on Cardiac Imaging Services. A standard echo can now only be claimed once in a 24-month period except for limited specific exemptions as documented by Medicare.
Preparation before the test
No preparation is required for this test.
Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment and allow 40 minutes for this test.
This test requires you to be able to lie down on an examination bed. If you normally require assistance to help sit, lie or roll from side to side please inform reception staff before booking this appointment.
