A bubble echocardiogram is a specialised heart ultrasound where a small amount of agitated saline is injected into a vein to detect abnormal connections between heart chambers, such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO).
A specialised echocardiogram using agitated saline contrast to look for small holes in the heart (e.g. PFO) and improve structural assessment.
Bubble echo is a specialized echocardiographic procedure used in cardiology to assess heart function and structure. During this test, a small amount of saline solution is injected into a vein, creating tiny bubbles that can be visualized on an ultrasound. The patient will typically be asked to lie on an examination table, and the healthcare provider will use an ultrasound transducer to capture images of the heart as the bubbles pass through.
This process helps in diagnosing various cardiac conditions, including detecting defects in the heart's chambers or valves, and assessing blood flow and heart function. The bubble echo can provide valuable information about the heart's anatomy and help guide treatment decisions.
A bubble echo (bubble contrast echocardiogram) is a specialised ultrasound of the heart where agitated saline is injected into a vein to create tiny microbubbles. These bubbles are tracked on the echocardiogram to detect abnormal blood flow between heart chambers.
A bubble echo is commonly used to detect a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or atrial septal defect (ASD), particularly after a stroke or TIA in younger patients. It can also help assess other structural heart abnormalities.
Yes. The agitated saline used is sterile and the microbubbles dissolve within seconds. The procedure is non-invasive, painless, and carries minimal risk.
The full appointment takes approximately 45 minutes, including preparation, cannula insertion, the echo itself and image review.
No NHS referral is required. You can book directly with us for a private bubble contrast echocardiogram.
Reviewed by Dr Matthew Balerdi, Consultant Imaging Cardiologist (FRCP) — Last reviewed: April 2026
No NHS referral required. Get rapid access to a private bubble contrast echocardiogram with specialist reporting.