Paediatric Echocardiogram
What is an Echocardiogram? An echocardiogram, or “echo”, is a scan used to look at your child’s heart and nearby blood vessels. It’s a type of ultrasound scan – a small probe is used to send out high-frequency sound waves that create echoes when they bounce off different parts of the body. These echoes are picked up by the probe and turned into a moving image on a monitor while the scan is car
What it is
Trans-thoracic echocardiography performed by a paediatric-accredited cardiac sonographer. Identifies septal defects, valve abnormalities, cardiomyopathy and chamber-size abnormalities. Reported by a paediatric cardiologist with a written report.
When this is relevant
- Murmur requiring characterisation.
- Family history of inherited cardiomyopathy.
- Pre-sports clearance for a child with a known cardiac history.
- Failure to thrive with concern for a cardiac cause.
- Established cardiac diagnosis - surveillance follow-up.
How we investigate
Comprehensive 2D, M-mode, colour-flow and pulsed-Doppler study. Visit duration 45-60 minutes. Written consultant report typically within 5 working days.
Options at The Vesey
- Reassurance with documented normal study for innocent murmurs.
- Onward paediatric cardiology referral for any structural abnormality.
- Family screening coordinated where inherited cardiomyopathy is identified.
- Sports clearance / restriction letter following structured workup.
- Surveillance scheduling for known conditions.
Is a paediatric echocardiogram safe? +
Yes. Echocardiography uses ultrasound — the same technology as a pregnancy scan — and is completely safe. There is no radiation. The scan is painless and the probe simply rests on the chest wall.
How should I prepare my child for an echocardiogram? +
No special preparation is needed. Your child should wear a loose top that can be easily removed. A favourite toy or comfort object is welcome. Younger children may sleep through the scan if timed around a nap. Feeding beforehand is fine.
Can a paediatric echocardiogram detect a hole in the heart? +
Yes. Ventricular septal defects (VSD) and atrial septal defects (ASD) — commonly called holes in the heart — are reliably detected on echocardiogram. Colour-flow Doppler shows blood crossing the defect in real time, and the size and significance can be accurately assessed.
Will the echocardiogram results be available on the day? +
The sonographer will review the images immediately. A full written report from the reporting paediatric cardiologist is typically available within 5 working days. Urgent findings are communicated same-day.
Pricing at a glance
Paediatric echocardiogram £450. Combined with paediatric cardiology consultation £590. Insurance accepted: BUPA, Vitality, AXA, WPA, Cigna, Aviva, Healix.
Book an appointment
When to book
Book if a murmur has been identified, you have a family history of inherited heart disease, or a paediatrician has recommended an echocardiogram.
Cost and pathway
Paediatric echocardiogram £450. Combined with paediatric cardiology consultation £590.
- Open 7 days including Sundays — 8am to 8pm, no weekend surcharge
- No GP referral required — book directly with our cardiology team
- Sutton Coldfield location — serving Birmingham, Walsall, Tamworth, Lichfield and the West Midlands
- CQC-regulated — rated 4.87/5 on Doctify from 700+ verified reviews
View our cardiology services →
Sutton Coldfield · Birmingham · Walsall · Tamworth · Lichfield · West Midlands · Open 7 days 8am–8pm
Open 7 days · 8am–8pm · 0121 387 3727