What is it
A colour Doppler echocardiogram is a non-invasive, diagnostic test that analyses the anatomy and working of the heart as well as visualising and hearing the blood flow in real time
What is its purpose
It allows the measurement and evaluation of blood flow through the chambers and valves of the heart. Possible disease or damage to the cardiac muscle, valves, arteries, veins and pericardium can be detected easily as can congenital heart diseases and tumours.
It is also used for the realization, control, monitoring and evaluation of patients who have had valve surgery.
How is it done
This procedure requires no preparation nor special care; it consists of placing a small probe, called a transducer, on the chest of the patient, this sends ultrasonic waves through the skin and tissue producing an echo in the heat chamber. A computer is used to read and interpret these waves, producing an image of the heart walls and valves. Thanks to the use of colour, the different directions of blood flow are reflected, simplifying the interpretation of the images. During the test the technician will move the transducer in circles and vary the pressure to obtain images of different places and parts of the heart.
What is it
It is a graphic representation of the bioelectric activity of the heart muscle. This test reveals the heart’s electrical activity and yields data for diagnosing certain cardiovascular diseases.
What is it purpose
This test is used to assess the condition of the heart in a non-invasive manner and identify possible pathologies present.
How is it done
For this test the patient wear anything made of metal as these can act as electrical conductors and alter the results. The thorax, wrists and ankles must be uncovered, the areas where the electrodes will be placed are cleaned and a conductive paste applied to these areas. It is best that the patient remains still throughout the procedure. Once the electrograph is connected it registers the electrical activity of the heart and shows it in graph form.
Stress ECG
What is it
The exercise stress test, also known as a stress ECG, is an electrocardiogram that is performed whilst the patient is involved in a physical activity, this enables the evaluation of the changes in the heart’s electrical activity and the possibility of suffering heart disease
What is its purpose
This test enables the the measurement and evaluation of bloodflow in the chambers and valves of the heart. It is carried out primarily to diagnose angina in patients with chest pain, through the heart’s response to physical exercise. Similarly, this procedure allows the detection of possible diseases of the heart muscle, valves, arteries, veins, and pericardium, in addition to congenital heart diseases, and tumors. It is also used for the realization, control, monitoring and evaluation of patients who have had valve surgery.
How is it done
To perform the exercise test, the patient must undergo intense physical exercise, using a treadmill or a stationary bike, controlled by a monitor that reflects periodic measurements of blood pressure. For this electrodes are placed on the patient and then connected to a monitor, the patient is then asked to perform a particular exercise. If during this process you experience any abnormality, (fatigue, fatigue, chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath, etc.), you must inform the medical personnel immediately.
Dynamic ECG
What is it
This is a noninvasive very effective technique and providing an overall recording of electrical activity of the heart for a period of time, usually 24 hours revealing any disorder that may arise. Thus the data collected enables continuous reading of the rhythm, frequency and electrical characteristics of the heart and subsequent diagnostic evaluation.
What is its purpose
The Holter is an instrument capable of detecting arrhythmias, any alterations in the form or structure of the heart alterations of the heart as well as disorders resulting from coronary heart disease or ischemic heart disease, it is usually prescribed when the patient suffers chest pain, palpitations or dizziness and can even be used to monitor the effects of rescribed medication.
How is it done
First the Holter monitor is placed on the patient, this registers the electrical activity of the heart through a series of electrodes placed on different parts of the body, these allow monitoring of the patient throughout the duration of the test (approximately 24 hours). Any changes or alterations will be studied at the end of the test.
Given that the patient has to conduct normal daily activities the monitor is normally attached to a belt or hangs around the neck so it can be carried around comfortably.
When the test period is completed the patient needs to return to the medical centre where the equipment can be removed and the results compiled and analysed.
What is it
A blood pressure holter or ambulatory blood pressure monitor is a non-invasive procedure that allows the monitoring of blood pressure during a pre-determined time, generally 24 hours, collecting measurements throughout this period so they can be analysed wen the test is finished
What is its purpose
It is a very effective technique that gives an overview of a patient’s blood pressure throughout their daily life, including whilst the patient is sleeping, highlighting the blood pressure rythmn is variable.
Its clinical usefulness lies in the ability of this system to evaluate the patient for an extended period of time without altering their daily activities, and to analyze the pattern of blood pressure, as well as the causes that produce a rise or fall in blood pressure and whether thes are variable or regular
How is it done
The patient will wear a discreet blood pressure cuff, this contains a sensor which will take readings at programmed intervals, normally every 15 – 20 minutes throughout the da and every 20 – 30 minutes at night, this is attached to a device that will record the information so that it can be evalued by the specialist at the end of the test.
The system, which is attached to a belt, is designed so that the patient can carry on with their daily life comfortably and easily.