Diagnostic echocardiogram • London & St Albans
Private echocardiogram (cardiac ultrasound)
A clinically focused, radiation-free assessment of the heart’s structure, valves and pumping function, performed by an experienced cardiac sonographer with clear reporting and appropriate recommendations.
- No GP referral required
- London & St Albans
- Clear written report
A clear first-line investigation
What is an echocardiogram?
A transthoracic echocardiogram uses ultrasound to create real-time images of the beating heart. A handheld probe is moved over several areas of the chest with ultrasound gel to assess cardiac structure and blood flow without X-rays or ionising radiation.
It can help investigate breathlessness, a heart murmur, suspected valve disease, high blood pressure, an abnormal ECG or monitoring of a known cardiac condition. Findings should be interpreted alongside your symptoms, examination and other tests such as ECG, blood tests or cardiac monitoring.
Your examination
What can the scan assess?
The examination assesses the heart systematically using two-dimensional imaging and Doppler measurements, with views obtained from several standard positions on the chest.
Heart chambers
Assessment of the size, shape and structure of the atria and ventricles.
Pumping function
Assessment of left and right ventricular contraction, including estimated ejection fraction where appropriate.
Heart valves
Assessment of valve structure and function, including visible narrowing or leakage.
Blood flow
Doppler assessment of the direction and speed of blood flow through the heart and valves.
Heart muscle & motion
Review of regional wall motion, muscle thickness and visible structural abnormalities.
Pericardium & pressures
Assessment for visible fluid around the heart and estimation of selected cardiac and pulmonary pressures where feasible.
imaging
When it may help
Common reasons to book
- Breathlessness or reduced exercise tolerance
- A heart murmur or suspected valve disease
- High blood pressure or abnormal ECG findings
- Monitoring cardiomyopathy or heart failure
- Palpitations with concern about heart structure
- Follow-up after previous cardiac imaging or treatment
An outpatient echocardiogram is not an emergency service. Call 999 for severe or persistent chest pain, sudden marked breathlessness, collapse, stroke symptoms or other potentially life-threatening symptoms.
Before you arrive
How to prepare for your scan
No fasting required
You may eat and drink normally before a standard transthoracic echocardiogram unless your booking confirmation states otherwise.
Wear suitable clothing
Wear a two-piece outfit if convenient because access to the chest is required. A gown and appropriate covering should be provided.
Continue medication
Continue your usual medication unless your clinician has specifically advised otherwise. Bring an up-to-date medication list if available.
Bring useful information
Bring relevant referral letters, medication details and previous ECG, echocardiogram, cardiac MRI, CT or cardiology reports where available.
Your appointment
What happens during the scan?
- 1
Clinical discussion
Your practitioner confirms your symptoms, relevant history and the focus of the examination.
- 2
Ultrasound examination
You usually lie partly on your left side while gel and a handheld probe are placed at several positions on the chest. Small ECG stickers may be used, and you may be asked to change position or briefly hold your breath.
- 3
Findings and report
The main observations are explained in clear language, with a written report and relevant images provided according to the clinic’s reporting process.
- 4
Recommended next steps
If follow-up is advisable, the report may recommend discussion with your GP or cardiologist, ECG or ambulatory monitoring, blood tests, stress imaging, CT, cardiac MRI or repeat echocardiography.
PrivateSono
Clinical expertise. Clear cardiac imaging.
Choose a convenient appointment in Central London or St Albans and receive a focused diagnostic examination in a respectful, confidential setting.
Book echocardiogramExperienced practitioners
Scans performed by appropriately trained ultrasound professionals.
High-resolution imaging
Modern diagnostic equipment with a clinically focused examination.
Clear communication
Findings explained without unnecessary jargon, with a written report.
Flexible access
Self-referral and online booking with appointments across two locations.
Clinic locations
Private echocardiogram near you
Good to know
Echocardiogram FAQs
Clear answers to common questions before you book.
Still unsure? Call 020 7101 3377What can an echocardiogram show?
It can assess heart-chamber size, ventricular pumping function, valve structure and function, wall motion, blood flow and visible fluid around the heart. Image quality and the scope of assessment vary between patients.
Do I need a GP referral?
No. PrivateSono accepts self-referrals for echocardiography. Please provide your symptoms, relevant medical history, medication and previous cardiac test results so the examination can be tailored appropriately.
How should I prepare for the scan?
No fasting is normally required. Wear a two-piece outfit if convenient and bring your medication list and previous cardiac reports. Follow the exact instructions in your booking confirmation.
How long does an echocardiogram take?
A standard transthoracic echocardiogram commonly takes around 30 to 45 minutes, although the appointment may be longer if additional measurements or views are required.
Is an echocardiogram painful or harmful?
The scan is non-invasive and does not use ionising radiation. Most people find it comfortable, although firm probe pressure may cause brief discomfort over a tender chest wall.
Can an echocardiogram detect blocked coronary arteries?
Not directly. A resting echocardiogram assesses the heart’s structure and function but does not show most coronary-artery narrowing. Stress testing or coronary CT may be recommended when coronary disease is suspected.
When will I receive my results?
Your practitioner can explain the main observations at the appointment, and PrivateSono aims to provide a written report with relevant images promptly. The exact decardiacy time will be confirmed by the clinic.
How much is a private echocardiogram?
The private echocardiogram is priced at £299. Check the booking page for current appointment availability before confirming.
Appointments in London & St Albans
Ready to book your echocardiogram?
Choose your clinic, view live availability and confirm your appointment online.