CaRi-heart technology
Revolutionary new technology to assess the risk of a serious heart condition or heart attack – many years before anything happens.
Bubble contrast echocardiogram
- No.1 private cardiac provider in the UK
- Test results with your specialist within 48 hours
- 99% of cardiac patients would recommend us to their friends or family
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Bubble contrast echocardiogram at HCA UK
Why choose us
When you choose HCA UK for your bubble contrast echocardiogram, you’re in safe hands with the UK’s leading private cardiac provider. Our cardiologists and electrophysiologists work together across our facilities to deliver personalised care for over 36,000 patients a year. And 99% say they’d recommend us to family and friends.
Once your scan is complete, your consultant cardiologist will review your results, explain them clearly and discuss next steps if treatment’s needed. We’ll confirm your appointment within 24 hours and deliver your results within 48 hours, so you’re never left waiting for answers.
A bubble echocardiogram is a specialised type of heart ultrasound used to check for abnormal connections between the right and left sides of the heart. During the test, a small amount of ‘agitated’ saline containing tiny bubbles is injected into a vein while ultrasound images are obtained.
Your cardiac consultant watches how the bubbles move through the heart chambers to see if any pass from one side to the other.
A bubble contrast echocardiogram most commonly helps diagnose a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or an atrial septal defect (ASD), which are conditions where a small opening between the heart’s upper chambers remains after birth. This is commonly known as a hole in the heart. Usually, this valve closes on its own soon after birth.
During the test, salt water (saline) mixed with tiny bubbles is injected into your bloodstream. Your cardiac consultant watches how the bubbles move through your heart. In a healthy heart, the bubbles should stay in the right chamber, but if some pass to the left, it shows the opening is still present. If the bubbles stay in the right chamber, your consultant may ask you to do some simple movements like coughing, sniffing, or straining your abdominal muscles to encourage the flap to open.
A bubble contrast echocardiogram is a safe heart ultrasound. The saline solution that creates the bubbles is quickly absorbed into the body. You may feel a slight tingling sensation as the bubbles are injected, but this will soon pass. There is an extremely small risk of an allergic reaction (less than 1 in 10,000) for some patients but, rest assured, your cardiac team will closely monitor you throughout your procedure to ensure you’re completely safe and comfortable.
There aren’t usually any special preparations needed for your bubble contrast echocardiogram. You can eat and drink as normal before your test, unless your cardiac specialist advises otherwise. It can be helpful to wear loose and comfortable clothing for your procedure. Your cardiac team will explain the procedure to you beforehand and answer any questions you may have.
Rapid access to tests and scans
See a specialist and get on the path to an expert diagnosis in as little as 24 hours.
State-of-the-art facilities
Access innovative treatment options.
Wide-reaching expertise across the UK
Visit any of our 15 dedicated diagnostic centres in London, Manchester and Birmingham.
Our locations
Where can I get a bubble contrast echocardiogram?
You can access expert cardiac care across our network of hospitals in London, Manchester and Birmingham. When you choose HCA UK for your private bubble contrast echocardiogram, you’ll receive exceptional cardiac care from our expert cardiac specialists and multidisciplinary teams.
78 Harley Street
78 Harley Street London W1G 7HJ
The Harley Street Clinic
35 Weymouth Street London W1G 8BJ
Devonshire Diagnostic Centre
Devonshire Street London W1G 7AF
Private bubble contrast echocardiogram with HCA UK
What to expect
Our cardiac specialists will make sure you feel comfortable and informed every step of the way, from booking your bubble contrast echocardiogram appointment to understanding your results. If you have any questions before or after your test, your cardiac team will always be happy to help.
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Referral and booking
You can be referred by your GP or book directly with one of our cardiac specialists. Once we receive your referral, our team will arrange your appointment promptly and explain what to expect on the day. Your consultant will ensure you feel prepared and answer any questions you may have before your visit.
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How to prepare
You can usually eat, drink and take your medication as normal before the test. If there are any changes, your cardiac consultant will explain any preparations you may need. It’s recommended to wear loose clothing, as you’ll be asked to remove your top and wear a gown during your scan.
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During your test
A small cannula will be placed into your arm so saline bubbles can be injected into your bloodstream. Small sticky sensors (electrodes) connected to an ultrasound machine will monitor your heart rate. You’ll lie on your left side with your arm raised or away from your chest while a small hand-held probe and gel are applied to your chest. The bubble contrast echocardiogram test takes around 30 minutes.
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Follow-up care
Your consultant will discuss your results with you shortly after the procedure. If the test shows any abnormal flow or an opening between the heart chambers, they’ll explain what this means and recommend any further treatment or follow-up you may need. You can usually go home after your test.
Accessing private health care
Self-pay
You don’t need health insurance to be seen quickly. If you’re looking for a diagnosis or treatment and don’t want to wait, all our private healthcare services – from private GP appointments through to surgery and aftercare – can be paid for as and when you need them.
And to give you peace of mind from the start, we’ll offer you a clear and transparent quote outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.
Bubble contrast echocardiogram FAQs
Your scan will usually take around 30 minutes. Your entire appointment may be a little longer to allow time for your cardiac consultant to review your results and monitor you before you leave.
Yes, you’ll be awake during the procedure. It’s a non-invasive procedure, but you may feel:
- A cool sensation from the gel used during the ultrasound
- Mild pressure as the probe is moved across your chest
- A brief tingling as the saline bubbles are injected
Each of these sensations passes quickly, and it’s normal to experience them during your scan.
Yes, most people can return to their usual activities straight away. If a small drip was inserted into your arm, it’s common for this to feel tender for a short while, but it won’t usually prevent you from driving or returning to work. Your specialist cardiac team will advise on any activities to avoid, if any.
Your cardiac consultant will review the results of your scan straight away and explain the findings clearly to you. If a detailed review is required, a full report will be available within 48 hours. This will include information about any further care that’s needed, so your cardiac specialist can tailor a treatment plan just for you.
If the test detects a small opening between the heart’s chambers, known as PFO or ASD, your consultant will explain what this means and whether treatment is necessary. Many minor defects don’t require intervention, but in some cases, further imaging or closure may be recommended to prevent future complications.
Normal results show that there is no PFO or ASD present. However, your cardiac consultant may discuss lifestyle changes, follow-up care and additional testing if you are experiencing symptoms such as migraine or shortness of breath.
A bubble contrast echocardiogram is a highly accurate way to diagnose small openings in the heart that may not appear on a standard echocardiogram. It helps cardiac consultants gain a clear view of how blood moves between the chambers so they can make a precise diagnosis and tailor treatment just for you.
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This content is intended for general information only and does not replace the need for personal advice from a qualified health professional.