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Echocardiogram Date

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

The echocardiogram date is the calendar date on which a patient's ultrasound examination of the heart was performed. It is recorded in the medical file so results can be tracked over time.

Quick summary

["This entry simply documents when a heart ultrasound was done, not a measured laboratory value."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
72078-9
Short code
DATEOFECHOCARDIOGRAM
Synonyms
—
Category
chemistry
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What This Entry Represents

This is a documentation field rather than a laboratory chemistry test. It captures the date the echocardiogram study was performed, which may correspond to the date the images were acquired or the date the study was finalized in the record.

Why the Date Matters

Recording the date lets clinicians compare earlier and later heart studies to see whether heart size, pumping function, valve function, or other features have changed over time. Accurate dating also helps match the imaging to the correct clinical event or visit.

How an Echocardiogram Is Performed

An echocardiogram uses sound waves (ultrasound) to create pictures of the heart. A trained technologist places a probe on the chest, and sometimes the study is done through the esophagus (transesophageal) when more detail is needed.

What to Expect

The test is generally painless and does not use radiation. For a standard study you may be asked to lie on your side while the probe is moved over your chest; most studies take a short time and you can usually resume normal activity afterward.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Documenting the echocardiogram date supports continuity of care, comparison of serial heart studies, and correct attribution of imaging findings to a specific point in the patient's history. It is an administrative/clinical record element and does not itself indicate normal or abnormal heart function.

Frequently asked questions

Is the echocardiogram date a lab result?
No. It is a record of when the imaging study was performed, not a measured chemical or blood value.
Why would my chart list multiple echocardiogram dates?
Each date corresponds to a separate study, allowing your care team to compare your heart's appearance and function across visits over time.
Does the date tell me whether my heart is healthy or not?
No. The date only says when the study was done; the interpretation and findings from the cardiologist describe your heart's structure and function.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy