An echocardiogram is a test that uses sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart. The picture is more detailed than an X-ray image and involves no radiation exposure.

This test is used to evaluate the valves and chambers of the heart in a noninvasive manner. An echocardiogram allows doctors to evaluate heart murmurs, check the pumping function of the heart, and evaluate patients who have had heart attacks. 

Electrodes, small patches, are placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm. Then, the transducer (a device that sends high frequency sound waves to your heart) of the echocardiogram is moved over your chest in order to take pictures of your heart from different angles.