Glossary term · Tests & reports
Echocardiogram (also: Echo, Cardiac ultrasound, TTE, 2D echo): An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart that shows its chambers, valves and pumping function while it beats.
An echocardiogram, or echo, is an ultrasound scan that shows how well your heart is working. It uses sound waves, not radiation. The NHS says a standard scan takes around 30 to 40 minutes. Cardiac specialists in India may ask for a recent echo report before advising on valve surgery, bypass surgery or heart failure treatment.
What types of echo are there?
- Transthoracic echo (TTE): the most common type. A probe is moved over the chest with gel.
- Stress echo: a scan before and after exercise on a treadmill or bike, or after a medicine that makes the heart work harder.
- Transoesophageal echo (TOE or TEE): a thin probe passes down the throat for a more detailed view, with sedation.
What does an echo show?
MedlinePlus lists valve problems, congenital heart disease, damage from a heart attack, fluid around the heart and the heart’s pumping ability among the findings. It can also look for possible sources of blood clots after a stroke.
How do I prepare?
MedlinePlus says no special steps are needed before a TTE. For a TEE you cannot eat or drink for several hours, and you need someone to take you home after sedation.
Send the full report
Send the written report with measurements, not only the conclusion. If the echo was recorded, ask whether the images can be shared as well.
Questions people ask
Will the Indian hospital repeat my echo?
Often the cardiologist wants a fresh echo in India, especially before surgery or if your report is several months old. Your recent report still helps with the remote opinion and planning.
Is an echo the same as an ECG?
No. An echo uses ultrasound to show the heart’s structure and movement. An ECG records the heart’s electrical activity. Cardiologists often ask for both, as each answers a different question. Send whichever reports you have.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.