Echocardiogram/ electrocardiogram (Echo/EKG)

Some treatments may affect how well your child’s heart works. The Echo/ EKG team at St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital helps find and monitor these problems. Finding problems early may help manage and possibly prevent heart conditions.

Echo/ EKG are abbreviations for the 2 heart tests your child may have. Echo stands for echocardiogram. EKG (also called ECG) stands for electrocardiogram.

An echo is a type of ultrasound. It uses sound waves to check the strength of the heart and how its valves work. Valves open and close to make sure blood flows in the right direction. The heart has 4 valves.

An EKG records the heart’s electrical activity. Each time the heart beats, an electrical signal travels through the heart. The signal triggers the heart to beat at the correct rhythm to pump blood to the body.

Both tests are painless and have few or no risks. Radiation is not used for either test.

Services we provide

We provide echo and EKG tests for St. Jude patients. Most children have both tests. Children may have several heart tests throughout treatment to watch how therapy affects their heart function.

St. Jude offers the most complete echo available using the latest technology.

St. Jude provides 2 different kinds of EKGs. We have the traditional EKG where children have the test while lying on a table. We also offer the Holter monitor EKG. This is an EKG that children wear while going about their everyday activities. It measures heart rhythm throughout the day.

Your ECHO/EKG team

The ECHO/ EKG team has specific training and expertise in doing these tests. A sonographer performs the echo. Either a sonographer or an EKG technician does the EKG. 

How to prepare for an echo and EKG

Both tests are done on your child’s chest.

• Their chest should be clean, dry, and free of lotions or oils.
• Your child should wear comfortable shorts or pants. Your child will take off their shirt and wear a hospital gown for the test.

What to expect during an echo and EKG

EKG

If your child needs both tests, they will have the EKG first. Your child can watch television during the test. Up to 2 family caregivers can be in the room with your child.

1. Your child will lie on their back on a table. The room will be darkened.
2. The care provider will place 10 stickers (called leads) on your child – 6 on their chest and 1 on each arm and leg. These leads are electrodes attached to the EKG machine.
3. The provider will record your child’s heartbeat for a few seconds.
4. The provider will remove all but 3 leads on your child’s chest. Then your child will have the echo.
5. Your physician may discuss the results with you. The results will also be in your MyChart app.

Echo

St. Jude has both 2D and 3D technology. The echo test takes about 1 hour.

1. The sonographer will move an ultrasound wand over your child’s chest. Sound waves make an image of your child’s heart.
2. After the test, the technician will remove the leads. Your child will get dressed and can go.
3. Your physician may discuss the results with you. The results will also be in your My Chart app.

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