An ultrasound-based imaging test that shows the heart's structure, valves and pumping function in real time.
An Echocardiogram (Echo) uses ultrasound waves to create moving images of your heart, showing its chambers, walls and valves as they beat. Unlike an ECG, which records electrical activity, an Echo shows the actual structure and function of the heart — how well it is pumping, whether the valves are working properly, and whether the heart muscle or chambers are enlarged.
At Apollo Clinic Shyamnagar, Echo is available in 2D, 3D and Colour Doppler modes. 2D Echo provides standard structural images, 3D Echo offers more detailed views useful for certain valve and structural assessments, and Colour Doppler adds visualisation of blood flow direction and speed, helping detect leaking or narrowed valves and abnormal blood flow patterns.
The test is non-invasive, painless and does not involve any radiation, making it safe to repeat as often as clinically needed to monitor a known heart condition.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 20–45 minutes depending on the complexity of the study |
| Preparation | No special preparation or fasting required for most patients |
| What Happens | You lie on your left side while a probe with gel is moved over your chest to capture ultrasound images of the heart |
| Pain/Discomfort | Painless; mild pressure from the probe may be felt but no needles or radiation are involved |
An Echocardiogram is recommended to assess heart structure and function when symptoms, an abnormal ECG, or a murmur suggest further evaluation is needed.
Common Indications
| Also Used For
|
2D, 3D & Colour DopplerA full range of Echo modalities available in one place for structural, functional and blood-flow assessment. | Detailed, Same-Facility ReportingImages are captured and reviewed by the cardiology team without needing to travel elsewhere for the scan. | |
Safe for Repeat MonitoringNo radiation involved, making it suitable for monitoring chronic heart conditions over time. | Correlated With Clinical FindingsResults are explained alongside your symptoms and other test findings, not as a standalone report. | |
Yes — an Echocardiogram is essentially an ultrasound scan of the heart, using the same underlying technology used for abdominal or obstetric ultrasounds, but focused on cardiac structures.
No fasting is generally required for a standard transthoracic Echocardiogram. Your doctor will tell you if any specific preparation applies to your case.
Colour Doppler adds colour-coded visualisation of blood flow to the standard Echo images, helping detect valve leaks, narrowing, or abnormal flow patterns that might not be obvious on 2D images alone.
In most cases, the cardiologist can review and discuss the findings with you on the same day as the scan.
Detailed 2D, 3D and Colour Doppler heart imaging, reviewed by our cardiology team, at Apollo Clinic, Shyamnagar.
Disclaimer: The information on this page is general and is not a substitute for a consultation with a qualified cardiologist. Test results should always be interpreted by a doctor in the context of your full clinical picture. All procedures are performed after clinical assessment and informed consent.
