A bubble study, also known as a bubble contrast echocardiogram, is a non-invasive test that uses ultrasound to assess blood flow through the heart and detect any holes, such as a patent foramen ovale (PFO) or atrial septal defect (ASD), between the heart’s upper chambers.
During the procedure, a saline solution mixed with air to create tiny bubbles is injected into a vein in the patient’s arm. The bubbles travel through the bloodstream to the right side of the heart and are observed on the ultrasound image. If bubbles are seen moving from the right to the left side of the heart, it indicates the presence of a hole.
The test typically takes about 30 to 45 minutes and is performed in a darkened room to better visualize the ultrasound images. Patients are asked to lie on their left side and may be asked to perform certain breathing maneuvers to assist in the test.
This test is often recommended for individuals who have had an unexpected stroke or those suspected of having a PFO or ASD.