Echocardiogram

A transthoracic echocardiogram is performed using a small ultrasound probe on  your child's chest and abdomen to look at the structure and function of the heart. The echocardiogram is not painful, and typically takes 30-60 minutes in a darkened room within our office.  To make your child feel more comfortable, a television and a DVD player are available in every echo room.

The study is interpreted at the time of the visit and the results will be shared with you and your family.  If your child requires a sedated echocardiogram, our staff will schedule it in conjunction with a pediatric anesthesiologist, who will use medication to help your child sleep throughout the study. The child must not eat for several hours before anesthesia can be given safely.

A transesophageal echocardiogram uses a small ultrasound probe that is placed through the mouth into the esophagus and stomach.  This study is performed under sedation, to help your child sleep throughout the study. The child must not eat for several hours before anesthesia can be given safely.