Contrast Echocardiogram Patient information leaflet (172kB pdf)
Introduction
We hope this guide will answer your questions about a Contrast Echocardiogram.
Please contact the team if you require further information via the details at the end of
this leaflet.
IMPORTANT information ahead of your procedure:
- HOSPITAL TRANSPORT PATIENTS: Please ensure you make arrangements with transport for both arrival to hospital and return.
- Children are not allowed in the waiting area unattended. Staff are not permitted to supervise children so please ensure childcare arrangements are in place to avoid your appointment being rescheduled.
- Please allow enough time for parking to avoid your appointment being rescheduled. We advise allowing at least 20 minutes before your appointment slot to allow enough time to park your car, as parking is limited. You may want to leave your car in an offsite car park.
What is a contrast echocardiogram?
An ultrasound scan of the heart is called an Echocardiogram and is performed to obtain images of the cardiac chambers and valves. The procedure involves gel and a probe being placed on the chest surface and the operator will move the probe around to obtain the best images. Sometimes it is necessary to obtain clearer pictures of the chambers using a contrast agent. One type of contrast used is Sonovue which is made up of very small micro bubbles which show clearly on an ultrasound scan. This contrast is injected into a vein through an intravenous (IV) line and the echocardiogram is performed to observe the contrast.
Why do I need a contrast echocardiogram?
Your doctor has asked you to have a contrast study to obtain better definition of the left ventricular cavity. This is useful to assess the contractility of the heart and to assess the cavity structure.
Preparing for your procedure
There is no specific preparation prior to your arrival in the department and you may eat
and drink as normal.
Medication
Please continue with all your normal medications.
Getting to us
Once you have arrived at The Princess Alexandra Hospital (Hamstel Road, Harlow, Essex,
CM20 1QX), follow the signage to the cardiology reception, which is located on the ground floor, blue zone. Please let the receptionists know that you have arrived for your appointment.
When should I arrive?
Please arrive at the cardiology department approximately 10 minutes prior to your
appointment time. Unfortunately, if you are late we may have to reschedule.
The day of the procedure
There are no specific requirements on the day of your procedure but please wear two-piece loose-fitting clothing.
The procedure
- A contrast study is a simple procedure and usually takes approximately 20 minutes but expect to be in the department for up to 60 minutes.
- A doctor will explain the procedure, inform you of the small risk involved and ask you to sign a consent form.
- Once the consent form is signed, the physiologist will call you into a darkened room and you will be asked to remove the top half of your clothing. A gown will be provided where necessary. The doctor will insert a small cannula.
- Three ECG electrodes will be attached to your torso and an ultrasound probe covered by a small amount of gel is placed on the skin surface beneath the left breast providing the required images.
- The doctor will inject the contrast, and the images obtained are recorded.
- Contrast studies are safe and generally cause no side effects. However, there is a very small risk of adverse reaction to the contrast, but this is extremely rare, and a doctor will be present during the test to counteract this if necessary.
- There may also be bruising from the cannula and a small risk of a vasovagal reaction to the cannula insertion (dizziness as a result of dropped blood pressure).
After the procedure
After the scan the cannula will be removed, you will be able to dress and will be asked to remain in the department for up to 30 minutes. There are no restrictions on activity, and you will be fit to return to work/drive as soon as the test is over.
Can I drive after my procedure?
You are able to drive as soon as you are discharged from the department.
Can someone stay with me in hospital?
You may have a friend or family member attend with you, but they will be asked to stay in the waiting area while you are having your examination.
How soon can I return to work?
You are able to return to work as soon as discharged from the department
Contacting the team
- If you have any further questions, please contact the Cardiology Department on: Telephone: 01279827195, Office hours: 09:00am-04:30pm
- There is an answerphone available outside of these hours. Please leave a message with your name and hospital number and a member of the team will contact you.
Your feedback matters
- If you would like to give feedback on your care, please contact our patient experience team at [email protected] or01279 827211.
- Please contact the communications team at [email protected] if you would like this leaflet in another language or format.