Echocardiogram in Singapore

Dr Eric Hong

Senior Consultant Cardiologist & Internal Medicine Physician
MB BCh (Ireland), MRCP (United Kingdom), FAMS (Cardiology), DIP (CBNC, USA), FSCAI (SCAI, USA), FACC (ACC, USA), FESC (European Society of Cardiology, France), FRCP (Edinburgh, United Kingdom)

Cardiologist adjusting controls on an echocardiogram machine with ultrasound probe nearby

Heart disease remains one of the leading causes of death in Singapore, with heart-related illnesses accounting for 30.1% of deaths in the country in 2017 alone. Such conditions are chronic and progressive in nature, and there’s often no telling when a stroke, heart failure or cardiac arrest may occur.

With this in mind, early detection and ongoing monitoring is particularly important for individuals with existing heart conditions or cardiovascular risk factors. An echocardiogram is often used as part of a comprehensive cardiac evaluation to help identify abnormalities and guide appropriate treatment.

What Is an Echocardiogram For?

An echocardiogram, also known as a cardio echo, is a test that uses ultrasound to capture images of the heart. It is done to assess the heart’s overall condition and detect any problems concerning its function and structure.

As a diagnostic tool, an echocardiogram can be performed to find the root cause of symptoms like palpitations, angina or shortness of breath. It can identify the type and progression of heart diseases in all ages, even congenital defects in foetuses. The test may also be ordered post-treatment to evaluate its outcome and effectiveness.

An echocardiogram may also help identify abnormalities affecting the heart's structure and function, including:

Enlarged Heart: This test can show whether the heart or its chambers are enlarged.
Thickened or Weakened Heart Muscle: An echocardiogram can assess the condition of the heart muscle and identify changes that may affect how well the heart pumps blood.
Reduced Pumping Function: An echocardiogram can evaluate how effectively the heart is pumping blood throughout the body.
Heart Valve Problems: An echocardiogram can detect abnormalities involving the heart valves and how they regulate blood flow.
Structural Heart Defects: This test can identify certain structural abnormalities within the heart, including congenital heart defects.

When Is an Echocardiogram Test Recommended?

Echocardiography is not usually needed as part of a routine check-up for individuals with no symptoms, cardiovascular risk factors or family history of heart disease. However, a cardiologist may recommend an echocardiogram if you:

Have a family history of heart disease
Have high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol
Experience symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or palpitations
Have been diagnosed with a heart murmur

Have previously been diagnosed with a heart condition
Have experienced a stroke or other cardiovascular event
Have multiple cardiovascular risk factors, such as smoking, obesity or a sedentary lifestyle

If you have cardiovascular risk factors or are experiencing symptoms that may be related to your heart, Dr Eric Hong can assess your condition and determine whether an echocardiogram may be beneficial.

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If you are at risk for heart disease, a cardiologist may recommend an echocardiography for a clearer look at your heart structure and function.

What Conditions Can an Echocardiogram Help Assess?

An echocardiogram provides detailed images of the heart's structure and function, making it a valuable tool for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of cardiovascular conditions. Depending on your symptoms and medical history, a cardiologist may recommend an echocardiogram to evaluate the following conditions.

Coronary Artery Disease

An echocardiogram can help identify areas of the heart muscle that may not be receiving adequate blood supply, particularly following a heart attack or in patients with suspected coronary artery disease.

Heart Valve Disease

An echocardiogram is commonly used to assess a wide range of heart diseases by evaluating the heart's structure, pumping function and blood flow. It can help identify abnormalities that may contribute to symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue or palpitations.

Heart Failure

An echocardiogram is commonly used to evaluate the heart's pumping function and determine how effectively blood is being circulated throughout the body.

Cardiomyopathy

This test can detect abnormalities in the heart muscle, including thickening, enlargement or weakening of the heart chambers.

What Are the Different Types of Echocardiograms?

Various types of echocardiography are available, all of which use ultrasound. Which method is best for you will be determined by your cardiologist.

Transthoracic Echocardiogram

The most standard type, transthoracic echocardiogram, is non-invasive and works similarly to an X-ray and a regular ultrasound. In this method, a handheld transducer will be placed on your chest over the heart. A transducer is a device that transmits ultrasound waves to capture live images (sonograms) of the heart’s chambers and vessels, which can be viewed from a monitor. A transthoracic echocardiogram is done to check for structural heart defects and evaluate cardiac function and blood flow.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram

In cases where high-resolution images of a specific part of the heart are required, or if a transthoracic echocardiogram is unable to provide clear images of the heart’s structures, a transesophageal echocardiogram is recommended. It involves a thin, flexible tube equipped with a small transducer, which is inserted down the throat, and into the oesophagus behind the heart. This method gives more access to the heart and reduces sound wave interference from the lungs, ribs and chest.

Doppler Echocardiogram

The Doppler echocardiogram is done to measure and evaluate the amount, speed and direction of blood flow to the heart’s chambers and vessels. Performed alongside transthoracic or transesophageal echocardiograms, this method is used to detect abnormal blood flow and pressure indicative of issues in the heart’s valves or walls.

Stress Echocardiogram

Coronary artery problems can be detected and assessed through a stress echocardiogram. In this method, the patient undergoes a standard echocardiogram before and after exercising on a stationary bike or treadmill. This test helps the cardiologist determine the effects of stress on the heart, as well as the amount of stress that the heart can handle.

How to Prepare for an Echocardiogram in Singapore

In most cases, little to no preparation is required before an echocardiogram. Patients can usually eat, drink and take their medications as usual unless instructed otherwise.

Depending on the type of echocardiogram being performed, your cardiologist may provide specific instructions regarding fasting, medication adjustments or other preparations. Before your appointment, Dr Eric Hong will advise you on any requirements relevant to your test to help ensure accurate results and a smooth examination process.

Not every patient requires the same type of echocardiogram. The most appropriate test will depend on your symptoms, medical history and unique needs. At our clinic, Dr Eric Hong can assess your condition and recommend the most suitable echocardiogram plan for your diagnosis.

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What Happens During an Echocardiogram?

The process of an echocardiogram varies depending on the specific type your cardiologist is utilising.

Transthoracic Echocardiogram

You will wear a gown and lie comfortably on a table. A technician applies gel to your chest and glides a handheld device over it to capture images. You might need to change positions or hold your breath briefly for optimal views. If your lungs or ribs block the view, a contrast dye may be given to get better images. The entire procedure usually takes about 30-60 minutes to complete.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram

To ensure your comfort, you will be given a mild sedative and a numbing agent for your throat (gel or spray). Afterwards, a thin, flexible tube with a transducer at the tip is carefully inserted through your mouth and guided down your oesophagus. This tube is manoeuvred up, down, and sideways to capture optimal images of your heart structures. You should not experience any pain during the procedure, and you can breathe comfortably throughout. The entire procedure may take up to 90 minutes to complete.

Stress Echocardiogram

Electrodes will be attached to your chest to monitor your heart rhythm. Your doctor might also measure your blood pressure. Afterwards, your heart will be gently stressed in one of two ways: exercise or medication. In the first approach, you will be asked to walk on a treadmill or pedal a stationary bike with increasing intensity. For individuals with pacemakers, adjustments can also be made to increase heart rate. Throughout the stress phase, echocardiogram images will be captured at intervals to visualise your heart's function under increased workload. This test takes around 40-90 minutes to complete.

What to Expect After an Echocardiogram

Echocardiography is typically painless, although a transesophageal cardiogram may cause minor discomfort to the throat, which should subside in a few hours. In general, you should be able to resume your usual diet and activities immediately unless your doctor provides specific instructions otherwise.

On your follow-up consultation, your doctor will discuss the findings of your echocardiogram. This may include a diagnosis or a recommendation for further tests. If you are diagnosed with heart disease, your cardiologist will work with you to create a customised treatment plan. Thismight involve lifestyle modifications, medications, or other interventions to manage your symptoms and prevent future complications.

Are There Risks to Echocardiography Tests?

Echocardiography is generally considered a safe and well-tolerated procedure. As it uses ultrasound waves to create images of the heart, it does not involve radiation exposure and is non-invasive in most cases.

Most patients experience little to no discomfort during the test. Some individuals may experience temporary discomfort from specific methods, such as mild pressure from the ultrasound probe, slight throat irritation or soreness or temporary fatigue following the procedure. Serious complications are rare.

Before your procedure, your cardiologist will explain what to expect and address any concerns you may have.

Get a Comprehensive Assessment of Your Heart

An echocardiogram is a valuable diagnostic tool that helps cardiologists assess the structure and function of the heart. Whether you are experiencing symptoms, have cardiovascular risk factors or require ongoing heart monitoring, an echocardiogram can provide important information to guide your care.

At EH Heart Specialist Clinic, Senior Consultant Cardiologist & Internal Medicine Physician Dr Eric Hong performs comprehensive cardiac assessments and uses advanced diagnostic tools such as echocardiography to support accurate diagnosis and personalised treatment planning. If you have concerns about your heart health or would like to find out whether an echocardiogram may be beneficial, contact our clinic to arrange a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Echocardiograms

The images from an echocardiogram are available immediately after the test. In many cases, your cardiologist can review the findings and discuss the results with you on the same day or during a follow-up consultation shortly afterwards. If additional analysis or investigations are required, your cardiologist will explain the next steps and when to expect further updates.

This depends on the reason the test was performed. Some individuals only require a single echocardiogram to investigate symptoms, while others with heart valve disease, heart failure or other cardiovascular conditions may require regular monitoring. Your cardiologist will recommend an appropriate schedule based on your condition.

An echocardiogram does not directly show blocked coronary arteries. However, it can identify abnormalities in heart function that may suggest reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. If a blockage is suspected, your cardiologist may recommend additional investigations such as a stress test, CT coronary angiogram or coronary angiography.

An echocardiogram is generally a comfortable procedure and most patients experience little to no discomfort. During a standard echocardiogram, a handheld device is moved across the chest to capture images of the heart. Some patients may feel mild pressure from the device, but the test itself is not typically painful and does not require recovery time.

For most standard echocardiograms, patients can eat, drink and take their medications as usual. However, certain specialised types of echocardiograms may require temporary fasting or other preparation. Your cardiologist will provide specific instructions before your appointment if any restrictions are necessary.

Our Insurance Partners

To keep our services accessible and convenient to our patients, we accept most major insurances and can assist with the claims process.

We encourage you to call our clinic so we can review your coverage and assist you accordingly.

Meet Our Echocardiogram Specialist in Singapore

Dr Eric Hong

Dr Eric Hong Cho Tek is a Singapore-based cardiologist with extensive training in both interventional and imaging-based cardiac care. He completed two ACGME (Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education, USA) Clinical Fellowships in Interventional Cardiology and Non-Invasive Cardiac Imaging. His clinical expertise covers cardiac CT angiography, PET/SPECT imaging, and nuclear cardiology, enabling him to offer well-rounded assessments and treatment options. Dr Hong’s areas of interest include interventional cardiology (femoral and radial access), sports cardiology, cardiac rehabilitation, and advanced cardiac imaging.

Echocardiogram in Singapore

What Is an Echocardiogram For?

When Is an Echocardiogram Test Recommended?

What Conditions Can an Echocardiogram Help Assess?

Coronary Artery Disease

Heart Valve Disease

Heart Failure

Cardiomyopathy

What Are the Different Types of Echocardiograms?

Transthoracic Echocardiogram

Transesophageal Echocardiogram

Doppler Echocardiogram

Stress Echocardiogram

How to Prepare for an Echocardiogram in Singapore

What Happens During an Echocardiogram?

Transthoracic Echocardiogram

Transesophageal Echocardiogram

Stress Echocardiogram

What to Expect After an Echocardiogram

Are There Risks to Echocardiography Tests?

Get a Comprehensive Assessment of Your Heart

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Echocardiograms

How long does it take to receive echocardiogram results?

How often should I have an echocardiogram?

Can an echocardiogram detect blocked arteries?

Is an echocardiogram painful?

Can I eat and drink before an echocardiogram?

Our Insurance Partners