What is an Echo with contrast?
An echo with contrast is actually two tests in one. The echo portion consists of obtaining images of your heart using ultrasound. For more information, go to the link at the bottom of this page. The contrast portion consists of utilizing normal saline solution that is injected into a vein in your arm. The saline helps to determine if there are any holes in your heart that would allow blood to go from the right side of your heart to the left side without first going through your lungs. These holes are called defects. The holes in the top part of the heart, the atrium, are called atrial septal defects. The holes in the bottom portion of the heart, the ventricles, are called ventricular septal defects. Is there any special preparation for this test? No. Please wear comfortable clothes for the procedure. The total time for the test to be completed is one hour. What will happen during the procedure? First, the echo technician will get you ready for the echo portion of the test. This will re
