Echocardiogram tomorrow

[Bepto]

I have an echocardiogram booked for tomorrow, will this test provide details of my EF? The reason I ask is that in order to re-apply for my HGV licence I must have an EF of 40% or more. How soon after the test & where would I access my EF reading please.

[SpiritoftheFloyd]

Hello Bepto

Yes the Echocardiogram will allow the hospital to deduce what you're EF is. You may not be given any idea at the time of the test as the technician may decline to answer any such questions and just say the consultant will review the test and will let your GP know - frustrating but that seems to be the way it is! I'd certainly ask what the result is, but don't be surprised if you get knocked back

I've just checked my records, my follow up Echo - letter dictated in hospital 8 days later, received the letter 5 days later - so just short of two weeks from Echo to getting result.

Good luck,

[Smarticus]

Hi, as others have said, they will not tell you at the time. You will need to speak to your consultant or GP for the EF. They do have it at the time of the scan, ask your GP for a copy of the results, but expect to wait some time. I would call your GP in 7-10 days to ask for the copy. HTH

[Prada47]

Hi Bepto

Question is there any leeway on the % of EF just an Echo is not as accurate as an MRI I believe by as much as 3 % at times !!! So if it was close I would maybe consider a private MRI.

Results are normally within a week !!!

Hands Face Space to Stay Safe

Are you a Private Patient currently ?? just Echo's on a Saturday are unusual

[IrisCarter in reply to Prada47]

Many centres are doing investigations and clinics on Saturdays to catch up with long waiting lists.

[Bepto in reply to Prada47]

As long as the EF% is 40 or above & I have no obvious symptems (I think) then I can re-apply. Thing is I First saw my cardiologist back in January after my initial ECG he didnt give me an EF figure, I asked but he said he didnt have a figure just that I had severe to moderate HF.

[pjw17]

Hello Bepto,

I had an ECG last Tuesday, was done at my local practice, the nurse then phoned hospital where the results went to, results came back, nurse informed GP who then informed me. All in about 25 mins.

Hope you receive similar service.

[Bepto]

Well had the test but the lady wast giving anything away, its just a waiting game for now. Thanks for all the responces guys. Do most people get an ICD fitted if they have an EF under 40%? my cardiologist has never mentioned the possibility nor have the heart nurses.

[Prada47]

Hi Allypops

The only guidance I believe the NHS follow is the one published by NICE !!!

ps been down to 27% and now back to 43% EF so a very variable measurement

Hands Face Space to Stay Safe

[Bepto]

Where have you seen this info? I have just checked on DVLA & can't find anything other than 40% which is within "assessing-fitness-to-drive-a-guide-for-medical-professionals.pdf

"

[Prada47]

I keep seeing ECGs mentioned as far as I am aware an EGC can't give you an EF reading that's why the cardiologist can't tell you until you have a Echocardiogram or an MRI !!

Hands Face Space to Stay Safe

[Bepto in reply to Prada47]

It was an echocardiogram that I had.

[Bepto]

Update: Got a letter through on Friday. It says the "echo revealed improved function of my LV which is now mild to moderately impaired. Due to image quality ejection fraction could not be calculated using Simpson biplane method but eye balling it was assessed to be 40-50%".

Not sure if the DVLA will accept this or not, how do I go about trying to get my license back. Good news anyway, I am chuffed.