Private Bubble Echocardiogram | Bubble Contrast Echo

A Bubble Echo is a specialist heart ultrasound performed to detect a hole in the heart. This test provides crucial information about any unusual blood flow between the heart’s chambers by injecting microbubbles into a vein when ultrasound images are obtained. 

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What is a Bubble Echocardiogram?

A bubble echocardiogram (also called a bubble study or bubble contrast echo) is a specialised heart ultrasound used to detect abnormal connections between the right and left sides of the heart. It is an advanced form of standard echocardiography that identifies the presence of a hole in the heart using cardiac imaging ultrasound and an injection of sterile saline containing tiny, microscopic bubbles (microbubble contrast).

What Does the Bubble Echo Procedure Involve?

A bubble echocardiogram is a simple procedure involving a few simple steps:

  • A small cannula will be placed into a vein on the back of your hand.
  • A small amount of sterile saline is taken into a syringe and agitated to form microscopic bubbles.
  • You will be asked to lie on your left side.
  • The saline containing tiny bubbles is injected into the vein.
  • A standard echocardiogram is then performed. Your cardiologist analyses the movement of the bubbles through your heart.
  • In a healthy heart, the bubbles stay in the right chamber. If a hole is present, bubbles will pass through to the left side, giving an indication of a hole.
  • The movement of the bubbles is tracked in real time on the echocardiogram images.
  • You may also be asked to cough, sniff, or strain to encourage bubbles to go across.

Are There Any Specific Preparations Required?

A bubble contrast echo requires no special preparation in most cases. You can eat, drink, and take your medications as normal, unless your cardiac specialist advises otherwise. We recommend keeping yourself warm before the test to optimise blood flow, and wearing loose, comfortable clothing on the day. Please contact our team if you have any questions.

What does an Agitated Saline Bubble Study Diagnose?

This test helps doctors diagnose patent foramen ovale (PFO) or atrial septal defect (ASD) – congenital conditions in which there is a small opening (a hole) between the heart’s upper chambers, present from birth.

What do the Results Mean?

If no bubbles appear on the left side of your heart, this indicates a normal result. However, if bubbles are detected on the left side, this is considered a positive test and may strongly indicate the presence of a hole in the heart. In this case, your cardiologist may recommend a Transoesophageal Echocardiogram (TOE) to confirm the findings and guide next steps.

What to Expect Following Bubble Contrast Echocardiogram?

If a hole in the heart is identified, your cardiologist will discuss all available treatment options with you. Depending on your diagnosis, this may include a minimally invasive Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO) Closure or Atrial Septal Defect (ASD) Closure – both of which carry a very low complication rate.

Book a Private Bubble Contrast Echocardiogram in London

Book a private Bubble Contrast Echo at The National Heart Clinic, Harley Street, London, where experienced clinicians and advanced imaging technology deliver a precise heart assessment. Get accurate, reliable results reviewed by our specialists.

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FAQs

The bubble contrast is a sterile saline solution agitated with air to create microbubbles. These bubbles are completely safe, non-toxic, and enhance the visibility of blood flow during ultrasound imaging.

A bubble study is typically recommended when a patient is suspected of having an atrial septal defect (ASD) or a patent foramen ovale (PFO).

The test is generally painless. You may feel a brief sting from the cannula insertion, and slight pressure from the ultrasound wand, but any discomfort is minimal and stays only for a short period.

In most cases, you can drive and return to work immediately after your bubble echo. If you experience any dizziness or feel unwell, please speak to a member of our clinical team before leaving the clinic.

The procedure usually takes around 30 minutes to complete.

A bubble contrast study is a very safe procedure with minimal associated risks when performed by an experienced specialist. Allergic reactions are extremely rare. If you have any concerns before or after your test, our team is here to help.

Yes, you will be fully awake throughout the procedure. There is no need for sedation – the test is non-invasive, straightforward, and completed within minutes

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