Imaging & Ultrasound

Detailed imaging to assess heart structure and blood flow

Echocardiography

An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan that produces detailed images of the heart’s structure and function. It allows assessment of heart muscle strength, valve function, and blood flow through the heart.

WHAT TO EXPECT

An ultrasound probe is moved across your chest to capture images of your heart. In some cases, a contrast agent is injected into a vein to improve image quality and blood flow assessment. The test is painless and typically takes 30–45 minutes.

Stress Echocardiography

A stress echocardiogram assesses how the heart muscle performs under increased workload and is commonly used to investigate chest pain or known coronary artery disease.

WHAT TO EXPECT

An echocardiogram is performed at rest and again immediately after exercise on a treadmill. In some cases, medication may be used if exercise is not possible. Images are compared to assess heart function under stress. The test takes approximately 45 minutes.

Transoesophageal Echocardiography (TOE)

A transoesophageal echocardiogram provides highly detailed images of the heart, particularly the valves and chambers, when standard echocardiography is insufficient.

WHAT TO EXPECT

An ultrasound probe is gently passed down the oesophagus while you are sedated. You will be monitored until the sedative wears off and advised not to eat or drink for a short period afterward.

CT Coronary Angiography

CT angiography is a non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed pictures of the heart and coronary arteries.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Contrast dye is injected into a vein and a CT scanner takes rapid images of the heart. The scan is usually completed within 30 minutes. Medication may be given to slow the heart rate to improve image quality.