ECHOCARDIOGRAM?

An Echocardiogram (Echo) is a type of ultrasound exam, which allows cardiologists to view the heart.  A registered sonographer will apply a gel to the area of the chest then place a small transducer on the skin to take pictures of the heart that all the cardiologist to see the heart structure, blood flow, etc.  The Echo can be an invaluable tool in ruling out the presence of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy (HCM), the #1 cause of Sudden Cardiac Death (SCD) among young athletes, and obstruction of blood flow to the heart.  Screenings are performed by an experienced, registered sonographer and take only 5 to 10 minutes. The tests are evaluated by a cardiologist here in Georgia. Should any abnormalities be detected a recommendation will be made to the student’s parents/guardian to follow up with a physician of their choice for consultation/treatment.