An Exercise Cycle Echocardiography is a specialist ultrasound scan of your heart during exercise.

What does the test involve?

You will be asked to remove clothing from the top half of your body and a gown will be provided. Medication (ultrasound contrast) will be injected into a vein in your arm to show the heart more clearly.

A small probe and gel will be placed on the front and side of your chest to allow staff to see your heart on a screen. You will then be asked to exercise using a stationary cycle, slowly at first. The speed and effort required will gradually increase.

How long does it take?

The test time can vary from 45–90 minutes. However, most of this is preparation time and you will only have to exercise for around 5–10 minutes.

Medication

Please take medication as usual however you should not take beta blockers on the day of the scan (these include propranolol, atenolol, bisoprolol, carvedilol, sotalol and metoprolol).

Transport

If you are eligible for hospital transport for medical reasons, please contact staff on 01324 566964 at least four working days prior to your appointment.

Driving after the test

There is no restriction on driving after this scan.

When will I receive the results?

The recorded images will be reviewed and a report will be sent to the healthcare professional who requested the scan.