Transthoracic Echocardiogram (Echo)
Using harmless sound waves, it creates real-time images of the heart’s chambers, valves, and blood flow — allowing Dr Sveeta Badiani, Consultant Cardiologist in London, to diagnose heart conditions quickly and safely without any radiation or invasive procedures.
Whether you’ve been experiencing shortness of breath, chest discomfort, or have a known heart condition, this simple test provides valuable insights that guide accurate treatment and long-term care.
Transthoracic Echocardiogram (Echo)
An echocardiogram is a non-invasive, painless ultrasound carried out to create moving images of the heart. It uses ultrasound waves to view the structure and examine the functionality of the heart, including the chambers, valves, cardiac muscle and adjoining blood vessels.
A small, handheld probe called a transducer will be placed against your chest in different locations to get various views of the heart for Cardiomyopathy Assessment. You may be asked to lie on your back or left side, and sometimes you will need to hold your breath or change positions.
Electrodes will be placed on your chest or legs to monitor your heart rate during the scan.
The test is painless and does not use radiation. Images are displayed on a monitor in real-time, and you may hear sounds representing blood flow. It is commonly used for heart failure assessment & heart valve disease evaluation.
Common Reasons for a Transthoracic Echo
Your cardiologist may recommend this test to:
Evaluate Heart Function
Measure how efficiently your heart pumps blood.
Assess Valve Performance
Detect narrowing or leakage in heart valves.
Investigate Symptoms
Explore causes of chest pain, breathlessness, or palpitations.
How Do I Know If I Need a Transthoracic Echo?
You may be advised to have an echocardiogram if you experience:
Shortness of Breath or Fatigue
To check if the heart is pumping normally.
Heart Murmur or Valve Concerns
For detailed assessment of valve structure.
Chest Pain or Palpitations
To rule out heart muscle or rhythm problems.
History of Heart Disease or High Blood Pressure
For ongoing monitoring.
Follow-Up After Heart Procedures
To ensure recovery and function remain stable.
Related Treatments
Cardiology Consultation
Comprehensive heart care for patients of all ages, addressing chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness, and other cardiac concerns.
Cardiology Consultation
Comprehensive heart care for patients of all ages, addressing chest pain, palpitations, breathlessness, and other cardiac concerns.
Dos and Don’ts for Managing Chest Pain
- Dos
- Seek immediate medical attention if chest pain is severe or unexplained.
- Keep track of frequency, duration, and triggers of your chest pain.
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet and lifestyle.
- Take medications as prescribed.
- Attend regular cardiology check-ups.
- Don'ts
- Don’t ignore sudden or recurring chest pain.
- Don’t self-medicate without consulting a doctor.
- Don’t delay emergency care if symptoms suggest a heart attack.
- Don’t continue smoking or excessive alcohol consumption.
- Don’t skip prescribed treatments or follow-ups.
Have More Any Questions?
Clear answers to common questions about appointments, investigations and what to expect at your first visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Our Services
What conditions does Dr Badiani treat?
Dr Badiani manages a wide range of adult cardiology problems including chest pain, breathlessness, palpitations, syncope, heart failure and valve disorders, along with blood pressure and cholesterol management.
What tests might I need at my first appointment?
You may have an ECG and/or echocardiography arranged. If needed, further tests such as stress echocardiography, ambulatory monitoring or blood tests will be organised promptly.
Do I need a referral?
Appointments require booking; please use the clinic booking portal or contact the clinic to discuss referral or self-referral options.
Which languages are available?
Consultations are provided in English and Gujarati; please inform reception if you need language support.