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Information for Patients: Commonly Used Diagnostic Tests: Echocardiogram
Medical Description Why is it done? The purpose of the echocardiogram is to provide noninvasive information about the structure and function of your heart. It is performed by using ultrasound as a sort of radar scan of your heart. What will it show? It gives a picture of the size of the different chambers of your heart, how thick the heart muscle is, how well the heart muscle is contracting, and whether the valves are working properly. If you have hypertension, the heart has to work harder, and the muscle gets thicker. The echocardiogram is the standard test for assessing the effects of hypertension on the heart. How is it done? The test is usually performed in a darkened room. You will be asked to lie on your back, your left side and/or to sit up. A lubricating gel will be applied to your skin over the heart area. A transmitter from the ultrasound machine will be placed against your skin and moved back and forth over the site of your heart. The technician will tilt and rock the transmitter into various positions. There is no pain or discomfort during the test. Are there any risks? No. Practical Details Where do I go to have the test? The test can be done either in the main Columbia Presbyterian Hospital (Milstein Hospital Building – located at 177 Fort Washington Avenue or at the East 60th Street office. You may also be able to get it done at your local Hospital. How Do I Prepare for the Test? No special preparation is needed. You may eat and drink normally prior to having the test done. How long will it take? Usually last 30-45 minutes . How much will it cost? Approximately $1,100 How much will I have to pay? If you have Medicare or Medicaid, the cost will be covered by the insurance. For other forms of insurance the test is usually covered with a minimal co-payment if any. |
