Echocardiogram
Helping us to build a picture of your heart with an echocardiogram test.An echocardiogram, or echo, is a painless test that uses ultrasound to build pictures of your heart that can be used to detect any potential problems. We work with a team of Physiologists and Consultants who perform echocardiograms in our outpatient facilities at KIMS Hospital.
Prompt identification of issues relating to the heart
Cardiac echo tests are used to find and detect a number of issues relating to your heart, including:
- Damage that might have been caused by a heart attack
- Possible heart failure
- Any defects caused by congenital heart disease
- Issues surrounding the valves of your heart
- Thickened or hardened walls of your heart (known as cardiomyopathy)
The first step is to have an initial consultation with a Consultant Cardiologist. You can request an appointment at either of our facilities.
Prices & payment
The above are guide prices only.
What to expect from an echocardiogram procedure
What does an echocardiogram test involve?
A specially trained Physiologist will perform the echocardiogram.
You’ll need to remove your clothing from the top half of your body, and you will be offered a gown to wear instead. Several sticky pads called electrodes will be placed on your chest, which are connected to the machine. An ultrasound probe will be covered with lubricating gel and you’ll be asked to lie on your left side while the probe is moved around your chest.
Using sound waves, the probe will build moving images of your heart and your Physiologist will produce a written report of the scan. The whole test takes 30 minutes on average, but this can vary slightly for every individual.
Does the test hurt?
An echocardiogram is a painless and safe test, although you might feel some slight discomfort as the sticky pads are removed from your chest. The lubricating gel might also feel a little cold when it is first applied.
Echocardiograms don’t use any radiation, so the test is perfectly safe for everyone, including pregnant women.
Where can I have an echocardiogram?
We offer these at KIMS Hospital in Maidstone. If you’re a private patient, you can choose where to have your test. This might be because we can offer you an appointment sooner, or you may find it more convenient to switch between our facilities, depending on where you live and work.
When can I get my results?
If you’ve been referred for an echocardiogram by your GP, results will be written up and sent to them the same day, ready for you to review at your next appointment with them.
If you’re referred to a Cardiologist, you may be asked to come in for tests a few days prior to your consultation. The results of your echocardiogram test will be ready to discuss during your appointment with your Consultant. This will then be used to determine if any further treatment is needed.
What if I need further treatment?
If your results show that you need any treatment or surgery, your Consultant will recommend a treatment plan for you. If you need a procedure, this will be carried out at KIMS Hospital.
How much does a private echocardiogram cost?
At KIMS Hospital, the cost of an echocardiogram starts from £364
- Make a general enquiry
- Appointment enquiry
Our team are on hand to help answer any queries you might have about coming to KIMS Hospital or Sevenoaks Medical Centre. You can use the form below and one of our team will be in touch. Alternatively to speak to a member of our friendly team, please call 01622 237 500 between 8am-8pm Monday to Friday.
If you would like to book an appointment, you can use the form below and one of our team will be in touch.
Alternatively to speak to a member of our friendly team, please call 01622 237 500 between 8am-8pm Monday to Friday.
Please be aware, if you are requesting a diagnostic scan such as an MRI, or CT, you must have a referral from a relevant clinician or Allied Health professional such as a physiotherapist.