Private Paediatric Echocardiogram in London
Comprehensive, same-day child heart ultrasound scans with consultant paediatric cardiologist Dr Nitha Naqvi at 77 Wimpole Street, Central London.
What happens during a paediatric echocardiogram?
A paediatric echocardiogram is a completely painless, non-invasive ultrasound scan of a child's heart. Warm acoustic gel is applied to the chest and a gentle handheld probe captures live moving images of heart chambers, valves, and blood flow. It uses zero radiation, requires no sedation, takes 20-30 minutes, and babies can be fed throughout the scan.
Why is an Echocardiogram Recommended?
An echocardiogram is the single most valuable non-invasive diagnostic investigation in paediatric cardiology. It is performed to evaluate:
- Heart Murmurs: Distinguishing harmless innocent murmurs from structural valve or septum issues.
- Congenital Septal Defects: Diagnosing holes in the heart (VSD, ASD, PDA).
- Chest Pain & Palpitations: Evaluating heart muscle pumping function and coronary artery origins.
- Kawasaki Disease: Measuring coronary artery dimensions (Z-scores).
- Aortic Surveillance: Monitoring aortic root dimensions in Marfan and Loeys-Dietz syndromes.
Dr Naqvi's Tips for a Relaxed Echo
- Favourite Shows: Bring your tablet or smartphone—children can watch cartoons during the scan.
- Babies Feeding: Feeding your baby (bottle or breast) during the test keeps them settled and happy.
- Comfortable Clothes: Dress your child in a two-piece buttoned or zipped top that is easy to open.
Same-Day Verbal Results
No waiting weeks for hospital scan reports. Dr Naqvi analyses the ultrasound live and provides instant verbal explanation and a comprehensive report.
Frequently Asked Questions: Paediatric Echocardiograms
Parent questions answered by Dr Nitha Naqvi