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ECHO CARDIOGRAM
An echocardiogram is a noninvasive test in which ultrasound is used to examine a moving picture of the heart in order to rule out coronary artery disease. The picture is much more detailed than an x-ray and involves no radiation exposure.
A trained sonographer performs the test. Sticky patches or electrodes are attached to the chest and shoulders and connected to electrodes or wires. These help to record the electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) during the echocardiography test. The EKG helps in the timing of various cardiac events (filling and emptying of chambers). A colorless gel is then applied to the chest and to an instrument called a transducer which transmits high-frequency sound waves. The sound waves are then converted to electrical impulses resulting in a moving picture of the heart.
An echo stress cardiogram is the same procedure as described above but includes not only a reading while at rest but also after a stress- induced walk on a treadmill.
There are no known risks associated with this test.