From our flagship bubble-contrast echocardiogram for divers to a complete standard TTE and contrast-enhanced imaging, every service follows a clear protocol and produces a clinically useful report.
Designed specifically for divers, this scan uses agitated saline contrast to assess for right-to-left shunts, including Patent Foramen Ovale (PFO), which may be relevant to decompression illness risk.
A standard TTE is included to assess cardiac structure and function.
A high-sensitivity bubble protocol is used to assess for right-to-left shunts.
Resting and multiple provoked injections help maximise sensitivity.
Appearance and passage of bubbles are documented using graded shunt scoring.
Findings are set out for diving doctors and UKDMC review.
Each option answers a different clinical question. Suitability is discussed before your scan.
A full structural and functional cardiac ultrasound including the BSE minimum dataset. Suitable for comprehensive cardiac imaging without the need to rule out an intra-cardiac shunt.
Ask about this service →Chamber size and function, including GLS where achievable; diastolic function; valve function; adult congenital anomaly screen.
Where image quality is limited, SonoVue contrast can enhance endocardial definition and improve diagnostic accuracy. This may support detailed ventricular assessment or further assessment of cardiac masses where clinically appropriate.
This comparison is a starting point, not medical advice. We can help route your enquiry before contacting us.
| Service | Bubble contrast echo | Standard TTE | SonoVue contrast echo |
|---|---|---|---|
| Common reason | Assess a right-to-left shunt / PFO in a diving context | Comprehensive structural and functional cardiac imaging | Improve definition when images are limited or more detail is needed |
| Includes | Dive-specific bubble protocol + standard TTE | BSE minimum dataset; GLS where achievable | Contrast-enhanced ventricular or mass assessment |
| Reporting | Suitable for diving doctors and UKDMC review | Clinical echocardiography report | Clinical echocardiography report |
Our diver-specific reports document the protocol, provocation manoeuvres and graded shunt scoring in a format suitable for a UKDMC-approved diving doctor to review alongside your history.
Tell us what you are seeking and whether your question relates to diving.