STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAM
A Stress Echocardiogram is a highly specialised test, and although it involves similar
elements to an ordinary exercise test and an echocardiogram, it provides very specific
information about the heart in a non-invasive way. It not only increases the accuracy of the
stress test in assessing coronary artery disease, but also can be used to provide specific
information about valvular disease and pressure in the heart and lungs.
This test is performed in the consulting rooms by a technician and Doctor Flood. Most tests
can be performed within 40 minutes.
A Stress Echo is made up of three parts: A resting Echo study, Stress test, and a repeat
Echo while the heart is still beating fast.
Preparing for the Procedure – What do you need to do?
You should dress comfortably for exercise. You should wear a top that you can easily
remove and exercise shoes. Fasting is not essential, but it is advisable that you not
eat a large meal prior to the test as this may lead to an uncomfortable feeling in the
stomach or nausea.
Female patients may not wear a bra during this procedure due to the placement of
electrodes, however, you will be covered by a gown at all times.
The Stress Echocardiography Procedure – What happens?
A technician performs the Stress Echocardiogram, however, Doctor Flood or one of his
colleagues will also be in attendance in the rooms at all times.
You will be asked to undergo a ‘resting’ chocardiogram. (See page on
echocardiography) Several views of the heart are gained by the echo technician. You
may be asked to move, breathe slowly or to hold your breath in order to obtain a full set of
data.
You will then be asked to step onto the treadmill, where you will undergo the same
procedure as for a normal stress exercise test (See Stress Exercise Test).
|
|
Immediately after stopping the treadmill, you will move directly to the examination table
and lay on the left side. The Echo examination is immediately repeated whilst your heart
rate is high.
Note: In patients who are unable to complete a high level of exercise because of physical
limitations, stress to the heart is provided by pharmaceutical or chemical stimulation of the
heart, but this type of test is usually performed in hospital.
Possible Complications And Risk
There are no known adverse effects from the ultrasound used during Echo imaging. The risk
of the stress portion of the test is rare and similar to what you would expect from any
strenuous exercise such as jogging in your neighborhood or running up stairs. This is why
Dr Flood or another Cardiologist is in attendance to manage the rare complications.
Follow-up Care
You will be asked to return to see Dr Flood for a short revisit session where he will discuss
the outcome of the tests and your future care. He will also discuss further testing if
required.
back to top |
