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A fast, non-invasive ultrasound-scan of your heart's structure and function — performed by experienced sonographers in a calm, CQC-registered clinic near Harley Street. We accept self-referrals and medical insurance.
Choose a date and time that suits you. If you are unsure whether an echocardiogram is the right test for your symptoms, call 020 3633 4902 and we will guide you.
£ 299
30 min.
An echocardiogram — commonly referred to as an "echo" — is a specialised ultrasound-scan that produces real-time moving images of the heart. Using high-frequency sound waves directed through a handheld probe placed on the chest, the sonographer captures detailed views of the heart chambers, valves, walls, and surrounding structures. Unlike an ECG (electrocardiogram), which records only the heart's electrical activity, an echocardiogram provides a direct visual assessment of how the heart looks, moves, and functions.
According to the British Heart Foundation, an echocardiogram is one of the most commonly requested cardiac investigations in the UK and is considered a first-line imaging tool for evaluating heart structure and function. It uses no ionising radiation and carries no known harmful effects, making it safe for adults, children, and pregnant women.
At Sonoworld, our private echocardiogram service is designed to give you fast, clear answers. You will receive a written report with images and straightforward guidance on what to do next — whether that means reassurance, a follow-up with your GP, or referral to a cardiologist.
A standard transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE) evaluates several aspects of cardiac anatomy and haemodynamics. The table below summarises the key areas assessed during your appointment.
| Area Assessed | What the Sonographer Looks For |
|---|---|
| Heart chambers | Size, shape, and wall thickness of the left and right ventricles and atria |
| Pumping function (ejection fraction) | How effectively the left ventricle contracts and ejects blood with each heartbeat |
| Heart valves | Opening and closing of the mitral, aortic, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves — checking for narrowing (stenosis) or leakage (regurgitation) |
| Pericardium | Presence of fluid around the heart (pericardial effusion) |
| Aortic root | Size of the first segment of the aorta as it leaves the heart |
| Doppler blood flow | Direction, speed, and pattern of blood flow through the chambers and across the valves |
Doppler imaging is an integral part of the echocardiogram. It allows the sonographer to detect abnormal flow patterns — such as turbulent jets caused by a leaking valve or high-velocity flow through a narrowed valve — that may not be visible on standard two-dimensional images alone.
Most people book a private echocardiogram because they want reassurance or faster answers than the NHS waiting list can provide. In clinical practice, an echo is requested to investigate new symptoms, to monitor a known cardiac condition, or to establish a baseline before starting certain treatments or exercise programmes.
New, worsening, or unexplained breathlessness — particularly with physical exertion, lying flat, or during everyday activities. An echocardiogram can assess whether reduced pumping function or valve disease is contributing.
An echo evaluates the heart's structure. While rhythm disturbances are best captured by an ECG or Holter monitor, structural abnormalities identified on echo can provide an explanation or rule out a cardiac cause.
One of the most frequent reasons for requesting an echocardiogram. The echo determines whether the murmur is "innocent" (harmless) or caused by valve narrowing, valve leakage, or another structural issue.
An echocardiogram can assess cardiac contributors to fluid retention. If deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is the primary concern, a DVT ultrasound-scan is the more appropriate first step.
Valve disease, cardiomyopathy, or heart failure — as advised by your cardiologist or GP. Serial echocardiograms allow clinicians to track changes over time and adjust treatment plans accordingly.
Sometimes requested before surgery, chemotherapy, or other interventions that may affect the heart.
If you are experiencing severe chest pain, sudden severe breathlessness at rest, loss of consciousness, or acute one-sided leg swelling with pain, attend A&E or call 999 immediately. A private echocardiogram is designed for assessment and clarification, not for emergency treatment.
We keep the process straightforward and respectful. You will be guided through each step, with time to ask questions throughout.
On arrival, we confirm your personal details, review your symptoms, and take a brief clinical history. If you have brought any previous test results, referral letters, or a list of medications, we will review those too. This information helps the sonographer tailor the examination to your specific clinical question.
You will be asked to undress from the waist up and lie on the examination couch, typically on your left side. A small amount of ultrasound gel is applied to the chest, and the sonographer places the probe at various positions to capture different views of the heart. You may feel mild pressure, but the procedure is painless. The examination typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on clinical complexity.
Once the scan is complete, you receive a written report with images and clear guidance on what to do next. If the findings are normal, that provides reassurance. If an abnormality is identified, we explain the findings in plain English and advise on the most appropriate next step — whether that is a conversation with your GP, a referral to a cardiologist, or, in rare cases, urgent clinical review.
People often wonder which cardiac test they actually need. The table below provides a simple comparison of the most commonly requested investigations.
| Test | What It Measures | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| ECG (Electrocardiogram) | Electrical rhythm and conduction of the heart | Detecting arrhythmias, conduction abnormalities, signs of ischaemia |
| Echocardiogram (Echo) | Structure and function — chambers, valves, pumping | Assessing murmurs, breathlessness, valve disease, heart failure, cardiomyopathy |
| Holter Monitor (24–72 hr ECG) | Continuous electrical recording over hours or days | Capturing intermittent palpitations or rhythm disturbances |
| CT Coronary Angiography | Detailed anatomy of the coronary arteries | Investigating suspected coronary artery disease |
| Cardiac MRI | High-resolution tissue characterisation | Myocarditis, infiltrative disease, complex structural assessment |
| Exercise Stress Test | Heart performance under exertion | Evaluating exercise-induced symptoms or ischaemia |
An echocardiogram does not directly image the coronary arteries in a way that reliably diagnoses blockages. If your main concern is chest pain related to coronary artery disease, your clinician may recommend an ECG, blood tests, or CT coronary angiography in addition to — or instead of — an echo.
Not sure which test you need? Call 020 3633 4902 and we will help you choose the most appropriate investigation.
For a standard transthoracic echocardiogram, there is usually no special preparation required. You do not need to fast, and you can take your regular medications as normal.
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that is easy to remove from the upper body. You will need to undress to the waist for the scan.
Bring a list of your current medications (or photographs of the labels). This helps the sonographer and reporting clinician interpret the findings in context.
Bring any relevant previous test results, referral letters, or clinical correspondence if you have them. Prior ECGs, echo reports, or blood test results can be particularly helpful.
If you are using medical insurance, bring your authorisation code and insurer details. Check with your insurer in advance whether a referral letter is required.
Allow adequate time for travel. Our clinic is located at 29 Weymouth Street, Marylebone, London W1G 7DB — just off Harley Street.
You can book a private echocardiogram directly without a GP referral. Self-referral is welcome for all patients who want fast access to cardiac imaging.
If you are using private medical insurance, we can usually accommodate that too. The process is straightforward:
Confirm that an echocardiogram is covered under your plan and whether your insurer requires a referral letter or pre-authorisation code before the appointment.
Use our online booking system or call us on 020 3633 4902. Provide your insurer name, policy number, and authorisation code (if applicable) at the time of booking.
We provide written findings and next-step guidance that you can share with your GP, consultant, or insurer as needed.
Prefer to talk it through? Call 020 3633 4902 or email info@sonoworld.co.uk.
This section mirrors how people actually decide to book — based on the symptom that prompted them to seek answers. Use it as a quick guide. If you have severe symptoms or feel acutely unwell, seek urgent medical care.
An echo helps assess pumping function and valve disease that can contribute to breathlessness, particularly if symptoms are new or worsening.
An echo evaluates cardiac structure, while an ECG or Holter monitor evaluates rhythm. Together, they provide a more complete picture.
An echocardiogram is the primary imaging test to assess valve narrowing or leakage and its haemodynamic significance.
An echo can assess cardiac contributors to fluid retention. If DVT is suspected, consider a DVT ultrasound-scan urgently.
An echo may help evaluate heart function and valves, but acute chest pain requires urgent assessment with an ECG and blood tests.
Follow-up echocardiograms can track valve disease, cardiomyopathy, or changes over time as advised by your clinician.
Trust in diagnostic imaging comes from three things: equipment quality, operator skill, and structured reporting. At Sonoworld, we focus on all three so that every result is clinically actionable.
Our sonographers are experienced, HCPC-registered practitioners who are members of the British Medical Ultrasound Society (BMUS). They undertake regular continuing professional development to stay current with advances in cardiac imaging.
We use high-resolution ultrasound equipment with full Doppler capability for valve and flow assessment. Structured measurements ensure that results are consistent, reproducible, and interpretable by any receiving clinician.
Every report includes clear, written findings with "what next" guidance — so you leave knowing exactly where you stand and what to do about it.
No. The scan is non-invasive and painless. You may feel mild pressure from the ultrasound probe on your chest, but there are no needles, no radiation, and no discomfort beyond the coolness of the ultrasound gel.
No. You can self-refer for a private echocardiogram at Sonoworld. If you are using medical insurance, check with your insurer whether they require a referral letter before booking.
An ECG records the heart's electrical activity using small electrodes placed on the skin. An echocardiogram uses ultrasound waves to create real-time images of the heart's structure, chambers, valves, and blood flow. They measure different things and are often complementary.
A standard transthoracic echocardiogram typically takes between 30 and 45 minutes, depending on clinical complexity.
In most cases, you will receive your written report and guidance on the same day as your scan.
Yes. Your report is designed to be shared with NHS or private clinicians to support joined-up care. Let us know at the time of your appointment if you would like us to send a copy directly.
Ultrasound uses sound waves, not ionising radiation. There are no known harmful effects associated with diagnostic ultrasound, and echocardiography is considered safe for all age groups, including during pregnancy.
If an echocardiogram is not the right test for your symptoms, one of the following vascular ultrasound-scans may be more appropriate.
Assesses the carotid arteries in the neck for plaque build-up and narrowing. Often requested for stroke risk assessment, TIA symptoms, or a bruit heard on examination.
Learn more →Checks the deep veins of the leg for blood clots. The appropriate first-line test if you have one-sided leg swelling, calf pain, redness, or warmth.
Learn more →Measures the abdominal aorta to screen for or monitor an aneurysm. Commonly requested for patients with risk factors such as smoking history, hypertension, or family history.
Learn more →Not sure which scan you need? Call 020 3633 4902 and we will guide you to the most appropriate investigation.
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29 Weymouth Street, London W1G 7DB
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