Prepare for the scan
Wear clothing that is easy to remove from your upper body. A standard TTE usually does not require fasting, but follow the instructions for your appointment.
Cardiac diagnostics in Shanghai
Echocardiogram in Shanghai.
An echocardiogram, often called an echo or heart ultrasound, uses sound waves to show the heart in motion. It helps assess chambers, valves and pumping function. This guide describes the standard scan performed through the chest wall, known as transthoracic echocardiography (TTE).
01Heart structure and pumping
02Ultrasound through the chest
03Valve and chamber assessment
Your visit
Why an echocardiogram may be recommended.
Heart ultrasound can help investigate a suspected problem or follow changes in an existing condition. The purpose of the scan should be clear before testing.
- Assessment of suspected heart failure
- A heart murmur or suspected valve disease
- Review of cardiomyopathy or other structural conditions
- Follow-up of a previously diagnosed heart problem
Your assessment
What happens during a standard echo.
A TTE uses a probe on the outside of your chest. Other forms of echo involve different procedures and preparation.
During the ultrasound
You lie on an examination couch, often on your left side. Gel and a handheld probe are used on your chest to obtain views of the heart. You may feel pressure from the probe.
Review the images
The images and measurements are interpreted as part of your assessment. Ask how your report will be shared and when you can discuss it with the cardiology team.
Specialist care
Understanding a heart ultrasound.
The report describes specific measurements and findings. Your cardiologist explains how they relate to your symptoms and care.
Structure and function
An echo provides information on the size of the heart chambers, valve function and how well the heart pumps blood.
Different tests answer different questions
An ECG records electrical activity; an echo creates moving images. Your clinician may use both when the questions are different.
Follow-up in context
Results may guide treatment or future imaging. Keep previous reports available so your clinician can assess changes over time.
Cardiology specialists
Meet the team behind your care.
Patient services can help identify the most appropriate cardiologist for your symptoms and records.
Cardiology and heart failure
Dr. Kathy Shi
Chief of Cardiology Department, SinoUnited Health
Cardiovascular medicine
Dr. Dong Huang
Visiting Cardiologist · Chief PhysicianNot sure which specialist to choose?
Let us guide youCommon questions
About Echocardiography.
Does a standard echocardiogram use radiation?
No. A standard echo uses ultrasound sound waves rather than X-rays.
Do I need to fast before an echocardiogram?
Fasting is usually unnecessary for a standard chest-wall scan. Other types, such as transoesophageal echo, have different requirements. Follow the instructions for the test actually booked.
Is a standard echo the same as a transoesophageal echo?
No. A standard TTE uses a probe on the chest. A transoesophageal echo uses a probe passed into the food pipe to obtain more detailed views. Ask which test is intended before preparing.
Will I get results immediately?
Reporting and consultation arrangements vary. Patient services can confirm how and when the cardiologist will explain your results.
How do I arrange heart ultrasound in Shanghai?
Contact patient services with any referral or previous report. They will coordinate the appropriate consultation, appointment instructions and fees.
Appointments in Shanghai
Start with a short conversation.
Tell patient services what is happening. The team will help coordinate the right next step.