Tests and procedures

Echocardiography

Below are basic explanations of the diagnostic tests and clinical procedures we use. For further information please feel free to contact us.

Resting Transthoracic Echocardiography

This is a painless ultrasound investigation of the heart. Detailed pictures are gained of all four chambers of the heart, the heart valves and the main vessels taking blood to and from the heart. This test is very helpful in assessing patients with chest pain, heart murmurs, palpitations and breathlessness. It is also useful to assess for any secondary damage to the heart muscle from hypertension. Echocardiography is also recommended in certain patients with a family history of heart problems. An echocardiogram takes up to 30 minutes to perform and is performed either by Dr Hickman or one of his technical team.

Transoesophageal Echocardiography

This is a highly detailed ultrasound examination performed using an endoscopic ultrasound probe that is passed into the oesophagus. It is most often required to assess structures at the back of the heart (the atria) and the heart valves. This procedure is performed by Dr Hickman and is usually performed either with sedation or under anaesthetic.