Cardiovascular Diagnostics
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a noninvasive 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. An echocardiogram can help diagnose heart valve problems and determine their severity. Echo techniques provide information about conditions such as heart muscle contraction, valve motion, blood clots in heart chambers, and scar tissue from heart attacks.
Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG)
An electrocardiogram is a noninvasive test that records the electrical activity of the heart. HCHS Heart and Vascular Center provides a full range of services for detecting heartbeat abnormalities. Services include standard 12-lead electrocardiograms, recorders that monitor up to 24 continuous hours of heartbeats, patient-activated monitoring devices that record irregularities of heart rate and heart rhythm, and devices that identify high risk for sudden death from irregularities of heart rhythm.
Stress Test
The HCHS Heart and Vascular Center's Stress Test uses treadmill and bicycle exercise to assess performance of the cardiovascular system and to detect coronary artery disease. Pharmacological stress testing is provided if you cannot exercise.
Nuclear Cardiography
Nuclear cardiology evaluates cardiac blood flow and function through the use of small amounts of radioactive materials. Nuclear cardiology can help identify patients who might benefit from angioplasty or bypass surgery after a heart attack. Images of the heart provided by special cameras detect the presence and function severity of heart disease, especially coronary artery disease. Many nuclear imaging procedures are performed in conjunction with exercise or pharmacological stress testing.
Stress Echocardiogram
A stress echo is a non-invasive test that combines two tests, a treadmill stress test and echocardiogram (ECHO). This test will help the provider to evaluate the patient's cardiac condition related to:
- Irregular heart rhythms
- If there is a decreased supply of blood and oxygen to the heart at rest as well as with exertion
- Overall level of cardiovascular conditioning
- How hard the heart can work before symptoms develop
- How quickly the heart recovers after exercise
An echocardiogram is done at rest prior to exercise and again at peak heart rate. The echocardiogram uses sound waves (ultrasound) to provide an image of his heart's internal structures, size and movement. This image is produced by moving a transducer (a very sensitive wand-like device) over the chest area. Electrodes are placed on the chest to monitor the heart's rate and rhythm throughout the test.
You will walk on a treadmill, gradually increasing the speed and incline. You will exercise from a few up to 15 minutes depending upon your level of activity. The test will be stopped if you become too tired and/or have symptoms such as chest pain.
The provider will be looking for changes in the EKG pattern and any symptoms that you may experience. At the peak of exercise, the treadmill will be stopped, and you will be instructed to lie down immediately on a bed so that a second echocardiogram can be taken to visualize the heart's motion with exercise.
Holter Monitor
Holter monitoring is a continuous, 24-hour electrocardiographic (EKG) recording of the heart's rhythm. Electrodes are placed on the chest area with the leads attached to a small recorder. You will keep a 24-hour diary to record daily activities and any symptoms experienced. You will return the next day to have the monitor removed. This test will help the provider evaluate the type and amount of irregular heartbeats during regular activities, exercise and sleep.