A paediatric echocardiogram is a heart ultrasound done in infants, children, or adolescents, using sound waves instead of radiation to create moving images of the heart. Paediatric echocardiograms are completed at Credit Valley Hospital and currently referred by THP’s Cardiology and Paediatrics departments.
The purpose of this test
- Evaluate the structure of the heart, including chambers, valves, and blood vessels.
- Assess blood flow through the heart and how well the heart pumps.
- Identify possible congenital heart defects or heart conditions caused by infection, genetics, or illness.
Children between the ages of 6 months and 3 years typically receive sedation to facilitate the study. Patients will undergo a pre-sedation visit within 12 weeks of sedation. Detailed instructions will be provided at your pre-sedation appointment and the week prior to your test. If you do not receive instructions, please call 905-813-4120.
How to Prepare Your Children for Their Test (Non-sedation)
- Explain simply what will happen: “The doctor will take pictures of your heart using a special camera.”
- Reassure them it does not hurt.
- Dress your child in two-piece clothing for easy access to the chest.
- Bring a comfort item, such as a toy, blanket, or dummy.
- Bring snacks or milk if sedation is not planned.
- Arrive early to allow time to settle your child.
How to Prepare Your Children for Their Test (Sedation)
- Children who are being sedated must not have food, milk, or formula for six hours prior to their appointment time.
- Breast milk is allowed up to four hours prior, and clear fluids or water are allowed up to two hours prior to the appointment time.
- Once your child wakes up in the morning, try to keep them awake.
- Bring a favourite blanket, pacifier, or anything else that may help your child go to sleep.
- Bring a bottle or sippy cup so your child can have fluids after the test is completed.
What to Expect During the Test
- Your child will be asked to lie down on an examination table in a dark room.
- The test will be performed by an echo sonographer who will apply a Vaseline-like gel to the chest to help move the transducer.
- The transducer will provide images of the heart.
- The test will take from 30 to 60 minutes.
