Echocardiogram

Nancy McDaniel M.D.

This test uses sound waves to make a moving picture of the heart. The sound waves are not felt by the person having the test and are not known to be harmful. The test does not hurt, but small children may be afraid of the room, the machine and the new people performing the test. The echocardiogram is also called a cardiac ultrasound or sonogram. In general, most children cooperate with the test and no sedative needs to be given. If the test is very important and the child is frightened, a light sedative may be suggested (the parent will need to agree to that plan).

In general, the results will be given to you by the child's cardiologist on the day of the visit or after the study has been reviewed.