Echocardiography
Noninvasive Heart Imaging
Echocardiograms are available at Jackson County Hospital, with imaging interpreted by Cardiovascular Medicine of the Quad Cities or Medical Associates Cardiology of Dubuque, depending on your cardiologist’s affiliation. This painless test provides valuable insight into your heart’s structure and function.
What to Expect
- A technologist applies gel to your chest and uses a handheld device (transducer) to capture heart images.
- You may be asked to lie on your side, hold your breath, or change positions to improve image quality.
- The test is noninvasive and painless.
- No special preparation is needed.
- Images are sent to a cardiologist for interpretation, and results are provided to your referring provider.
FAQS
Common Questions
An echo helps doctors assess your heart’s structure and function, and detect abnormalities such as valve issues, weakened heart muscle, or fluid buildup.
Yes. It’s completely noninvasive and uses no radiation — just sound waves.
The procedure typically takes 30 to 45 minutes.
No special preparation is needed. You can eat and take medications as normal unless your provider tells you otherwise.
A cardiologist from Cardiovascular Medicine of the Quad Cities or Medical Associates Cardiology of Dubuque will review the images and send the results to your provider.
Your provider will typically receive and discuss your results within a few business days.
