Opening September 2026
Echocardiogram on the Gold Coast
01The test
Ultrasound Imaging of the Heart
An echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan of the heart, showing the chambers, valves and walls moving in real time and measuring how blood flows through them. At Nuevo Medical, an echocardiogram on the Gold Coast will be performed in one of two dedicated echocardiography rooms within our cardiology suite. No radiation is involved and no preparation is generally required. Because the rooms sit alongside our cardiology consulting rooms, the scan and the specialist review that interprets it don't have to be arranged at separate locations. Results support assessment of heart valve disease, heart failure and a range of other findings. Call 0417 426 825 to enquire.
02What it measures
What the Scan Measures
A resting transthoracic study captures several measurements in a single appointment.
- 01
Pumping function
How effectively the left ventricle is contracting, expressed as a measured value. This is one of the most frequently referenced results in cardiology.
- 02
Valve function
Whether each valve opens and closes normally, and whether blood is leaking backwards or passing through a narrowing. Doppler measurement quantifies both.
- 03
Chamber dimensions
The size and wall thickness of each heart chamber. Changes here often reflect the heart's response to another condition.
- 04
Pericardium and surrounding structures
The membrane around the heart and adjacent structures are examined. Findings here are sometimes incidental to the referral question.
03On the day
What to Expect During the Appointment
The study is performed by a sonographer with you lying on your side on an examination bed. Electrodes are placed on the chest to record the heart rhythm during the scan, gel is applied and a probe is moved across several positions on the chest. You may be asked to hold your breath briefly or change position, as some views are only obtainable at certain angles. The appointment generally takes longer than people expect, since a complete study involves capturing a substantial number of images and measurements. No preparation is usually needed and you can eat and take medications as normal unless told otherwise. Images are reported by a cardiologist, and the findings are discussed at a consultation rather than issued directly.
04Questions
FAQs
No. Echocardiography uses ultrasound, the same technology used in pregnancy scans, and involves no ionising radiation.
A standard resting study generally requires no preparation, and medications and meals can usually continue as normal. The practice will advise if anything different applies to a particular referral.
A resting study images the heart while you're lying still, while a stress study images it before and after controlled exertion. The stress version answers questions about how the heart behaves under load.
05Enquiries
Speak with the team
Opening September 2026
- Phone
- 0417 426 825