Cardiac Testing
ECHOCARDIOGRAM
An echocardiogram is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves (ultrasound) to evaluate how well the heart is working. Gel is applied to the chest and a transducer (wand-like apparatus) is moved over the chest area to produce an image of the internal structures of the heart. The test will take approximately 30 minutes.
This test will help the doctor to evaluate:
- how well the heart is moving,
- how well the valves are working, and,
- the size of the heart and its pumping chambers (ventricles).
ECG
An electrocardiogram is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart. The electrical activity is related to the impulses that travel through the heart that determines the heart’s rate and rhythm. Electrodes are placed on the chest, arms and legs. The test takes about five to ten minutes.
This test will help the doctor to evaluate the patient’s cardiac condition by answering the following:
- Is there a decreased supply of blood and oxygen to the heart?
- Has a heart attack occurred?
- What part of the heart was damaged?
- Are there are any irregular heartbeats or rhythm?
HOLTER
Holter monitoring is a continuous, twenty-four hour electrocardiographic (EKG) recording of the rhythm of the heart. Electrodes are placed on the chest area with the leads attached to a small recorder. The patient will keep a 24-hour diary to record daily activities and any symptoms experienced. It will take 15 minutes to have the monitor put on. The patient will return the next day to have the monitor removed.
This test will help the doctor evaluate the type and amount of irregular heartbeats during regular activities, exercise and sleep.