Hospital Services - Radiology | Computed Tomography | Dexascan | Echocardiogram | Mammography | MRI | Ultrasound | Xray

RADIOLOGY

Echocardiogram

Echocardiogram services are provided at Madelia Community hospital on Wednesdays and as deemed necessary for inpatients 24/7.  This exceptional service is provided through Mayo Clinic’s Echocardiography Laboratory.    This service is available on Wednesdays from 9:00am to 2:30pm.

An echocardiogram uses ultrasound (sound waves), not radiation, and an instrument called a transducer (camera) to determine the size of your heart, how your heart is functioning and how well your heart is pumping.

How do I prepare for the exam?

There are no dietary restrictions for this exam.

What will happen during the exam?

You will be asked to undress from the waist up.  A gown will be provided.  ECG (electrocardiograph) patches will be placed on your chest.  You will be asked to lie on your back and/or your left side during the exam.  Warm gel will be placed on your chest to aid the transmission of the ultrasound waves.  A small handheld transducer will be firmly placed on your chest and moved around during the exam.  You may experience discomfort from the pressure of the transducer.  During the exam, you may hear a sound similar to a heartbeat coming from the machine as it detects your blood flow.  The technologist will take several images of your heart.

Instructions after your exam:

If your exam required an IV injection, contact your physician/ health care provider immediately if you experience redness or swelling at the injection site.

Your physician/ health care provider will share the results with you at your follow-up appointment.  If you do not have a follow-up appointment and have not received the results within 5-7 days, please call your physician/health care provider.

Please note:  Arriving late may result in rescheduling of your exam.