Cardiovascular Testing
Echocardiogram
The "echo" is an imaging technique that uses sound waves through the chest to provide a two-dimensional image of the heart muscle, valves, and other cardiovascular structures. It also provides important information about the pressure inside the heart and lungs. When indicated, we also perform echocardiography with intravenous contrast and bubble studies (agitated saline contrast).
What an echocardiogram shows
An echocardiogram allows your cardiologist to evaluate the heart in real time: how the chambers are sized, how the valves open and close, how blood flows through the heart, and how strongly the muscle contracts.
The test also provides important information about the pressure inside the heart and lungs. Heart muscle function is evaluated periodically to monitor changes over the years and to guide medical therapy, and for patients who have had a heart attack, an echo helps assess how the heart is healing.
When indicated, we can also perform echocardiography with intravenous contrast and bubble studies (agitated saline contrast).
What to expect
Duration
Echocardiograms are booked for 1 hour.
Preparation
Generally no special preparation is required. Your care team will let you know if any adjustments are needed before your appointment.
During the test
You will lie comfortably on your side while our sonographer applies a small amount of ultrasound gel and moves a transducer across your chest to capture images.
After the test
Your results are reviewed by your Lown Group cardiologist, typically within one to two days, and discussed with you in the context of your overall care plan.
On-site, with your care team
Because our echocardiogram is performed on site, your Lown Group cardiologist reads and interprets the images directly rather than relying on an external facility. If follow-up is needed, it begins immediately rather than waiting for records to transfer.
All testing, labs, and clinical services are billed to insurance and not included in the membership fee.
Learn about membership
Our membership includes a thoughtful onboarding process to ensure The Lown Group is the right fit for your care needs. Our team is available to answer questions.
