Echocardiogram

The doppler uses the sound waves which reflect off the moving red blood cells within the heart chambers. It is usually performed with the 2-Dimensional Echocardiogram. Color Flow Mapping is usually done in conjunction with the doppler test also. It shows the speed and direction of blood flow, but the images are in color. The color allows the physician to “map” abnormalities in blood flow.

Procedure

This procedure takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes to perform.

Instructions

1. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. You may park in the Cancer Center/CardioVascular Institute parking lot on Brighton Ave and walk directly across the street to the CardioVascular Institute.

2. You will register for you exam at the Reception Desk in the CardioVascular Institute.

3. Please bring the following items with you:

• Drivers license or other photo identification
• Insurance cards.
• Prescription or order from your physician and referrals if required.
• Bring a list of your medications with dosages.

4. There are no other special preparations for this study.

Stress-Echocardiogram Testing

This test is performed to evaluate the contractility of your heart with exertion. You will have a monitor attached and prior to your exercise, a resting Echocardiogram will be performed. You will walk on a treadmill for approximately 2 to 10 minutes. During your exercise, the Cardiologist will monitor your EKG and the Stress technician will be taking your blood pressure frequently. At your peak exercise, the treadmill will stop abruptly under your feet and you will return to the bed and peak exercise Echocardiogram pictures will be taken. The Cardiologist will evaluate your resting Echocardiogram images with peak exercise.

Procedure

The entire procedure will take approximately one hour.

Instructions

1. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. You may park in the Cancer Center/CardioVascular Institute parking lot on Brighton Ave and walk directly across the street to the CardioVascular Institute.

2. You will register for you exam at the Reception Desk in the CardioVascular Institute.

3. Please bring the following items with you:

• Drivers license or other photo identification
• Insurance cards.
• Prescription or order from your physician and referrals if required.
• Bring a list of your medications with dosages.
• Bring a copy of a recent EKG (if available).

4. Eat a light breakfast (toast & juice) at least 2 hours prior to the test.

5. Drink NO CAFFEINE.

6. Wear a rubber sole walking shoe or sneaker.

7. Ladies should wear slacks or shorts (weather permitting).

8. Check with your physician to see if you should be tested on or off your medications.

9. If you are diabetic, consult your physician for any special instructions about taking your medication. Please bring a snack for when you are finished with the test.

Transeophageal Echocardiogram Test

This test allows the cardiologist to view the internal structures of the heart and the heart’s major vessels by inserting a probe (a thin flexible tube with a special tip) down the throat. This test will help the doctor to evaluate the patient’s cardiac condition related to congenital defects, heart valve disease, heart muscle disease, endocarditis and blood clots. This test evaluates the function of prosthetic valves, especially mitral valve prosthesis.

Procedure

The endoscope will be in your esophagus for 15 to 30 minutes. This test should last about 2 hours, which includes preparation and recovery time.

Instructions

1. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your schedule appointment and register in the Endoscopy Department located on the second floor of the Surgical Pavilion. 

2.Please bring the following items with you:

• Drivers license or other photo identification
• Insurance cards
• Prescription or order from your physician and referrals if required
• A list of your medications with dosages

3. The preparation for a TEE is nothing to eat or drink (except water) for 6 hours before the test.

4. Do not smoke for at least 6 hours prior to test.

5. If you have dentures or dental prostheses, inform the health care professional before the test.

6. After the test, patient will not be allowed to eat for 1-2 hours due to the numbing of the throat.

7. You will not be able to drive for at least 12 hours after the procedure. Be sure to make arrangements in advance to get home after the test.