CARDIAC INVESTIGATIONS


ELECTROCARDIOGRAM (ECG)

The ECG records the electrical activity of your heart. An ECG is used to help detect problems with your heart rhythm. It can also show if you have had a heart attack. Ten small patches called electrodes are placed on your arms, legs and chest. These are connected to a recording machine. The machine records a few beats from each set of electrodes onto paper. The whole test takes about five minutes and will not be uncomfortable at all.


EXERCISE STRESS TEST

Also known as a treadmill or exercise ECG. The test involves walking on treadmill or moving belt. An ECG is recorded while you are exercising. This records the activity of your heart. Your blood pressure will also be recorded at intervals.

The test starts off at a very easy rate and is gradually made harder by increasing the speed and slope of the treadmill. Two technicians will supervise the test. The exercise test usually lasts about 15 minutes. If you get tired, short of breath or start getting unpleasant chest pains please tell the staff. The value of the test is much greater if you work as hard as you can.


ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY (ECHO)

The test uses sound waves to produce a study of the motion of hearts chambers and valves.
During the test some conductive jelly is rubbed onto your chest. A small probe is then placed on your chest to record the image.
The probe picks up the echoes reflected from various parts of the heart and shows them as a picture on a screen. The test does not hurt at all, and may take 30-60 minutes.


TRANSOESPHAGEAL ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY (TOE)

Pictures of the heart are taken from the gullet (esophagus), which lies behind the heart. This gives a clearer image of the back of the heart. You swallow a small probe, which is mounted at the end of a fine, flexible tube.
A local anesthetic spray will be used to numb the back of the throat. You may also be given a light sedative to help you relax. The procedure will take approximately 20-30 minutes.


RADIONUCLIDE TESTS (INCLUDING MYOVIEW TESTS)

If you cannot do the standard exercise test because of another physical condition , the doctor may recommend a radionuclide test.
During this test a radiographer will inject a small amount of radioactive substance into the blood , often while you are gently exercising on a treadmill for six minutes. You may also be given an injection of as drug to increase the blood flow to your heart.


24-HOUR ECG RECORDINGS

This involves continuously recording an electrocardiogram (ECG) over 24-hours. It is usually done as an Outpatient. This test can help to diagnose symptoms such as palpitations. Electrodes are attached to your chest and connected by fine leads to a small lightweight recorder. You can do everything you normally do, except have a bath or shower. The technician will give you a diary in, which your record any symptoms such as palpitations or dizzy spells. It is important to fill in your diary accurately.


EVENT RECORDER

A small, portable, battery powered machine used by a patient to record ECG over along period of time. Patients may keep the recorder for several weeks. The patient presses a button on the recorder when they experience symptoms.The recorder is returned to the department and any events can be analysed.


24-HOUR BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR

A blood pressure cuff is fitted to your arm and connected to a small device the size of a personal stereo and attached to a belt.
The blood pressure cuff inflates at regular intervals during the 24-hours to measure your blood pressure.
Your can carry out your normal activities and are required to wear the recorder while in bed.

For further information on Cardiac investigations:-
www.bhf.org.uk