Exams we offer in your clinic

Echocardiogram (Cardiac Ultrasound)

What is an echocardiogram?

Transthoracic echocardiogram (or “echo”) images the heart and blood flow using ultrasound. We assess the structure and function of the heart. Patients may be referred for an echo to look at the following pathology:

  • assess the function of the heart valves and check for regurgitation

  • assess the size, structure, function of the heart

  • assess for stenosis (narrowing) of the heart valves and large external vessels

  • identify presence of tumours, blood clots, and inflammation of the pericardium

  • identify other forms of heart disease and changes to any of the above over time.

What happens during an echocardiogram?

Patients will be asked to undress to the waist, the sonographer will attach 3 ECG electrodes to the patient before asking them to lie on their side on the exam table. The room is darkened to better allow the sonographer to see the ultrasound images. The sonographer applies conductive water based gel and moves a small transducer around the patients chest wall. The patient may be asked to briefly hold their breath or move slightly to improve imaging, and apart from the pressure of the probe on the chest there is nothing else to feel and no health risks to the patient.

How long does echocardiography take?

Approximately 30- 45 minutes.

24 Hr Holter Monitor

What is a Holter monitor?

A Holter monitor is a small wearable/portable electrocardiogram (ECG) device used to record the heart rate and rhythm over 24 hour period or longer. Holter monitors are used to assess for arrhythmias, check the effect of medications, identify problems with a pacemaker, and for surveillance/observation of changes over time.

What does Holter monitoring involve?

Patients will be asked to remove their shirt while the monitor is fitted. A cardiac technician attaches adhesive electrodes on the chest – these connect to a small recording unit worn on a belt or over the shoulder. Patients will be asked to keep a diary of their activities and any symptoms experienced during the 24 hours. Patients will return to the office with the device at the end of the monitoring period, and the rhythm tracings will be interpreted by a cardiologist and a report sent to your referring doctor.

How to prepare for a Holter monitor:

  • Bathe/shower in the morning – you will not be able to do so while wearing the Holter monitor.

  • Wear a two-piece outfit – you will need to remove your shirt to attach the electrodes.

ECG

What is a 12 lead ECG?

An electrocardiogram (ECG,) captures the electrical activity of the heart, including the rate and rhythm. A 12 lead ECG can be used to identify arrhythmia, conduction abnormalities, some abnormal heart structures, and ischaemia.

Patients can often also have an ECG during other forms of cardiac testing, such as echocardiogram or exercise testing.

What happens during an ECG?

Patients will lay down flat on an exam bed, a cardiac technician or nurse will attached 10 adhesive electrodes to limbs and chest and attach these to an ECG machine, which will create an image (“tracing”) of the heart rate and rhythm. There is no pain and no risks associated with ECG. A cardiologist will interpret the ECG tracings before sending a report to back to the clinic for followup.

How do I prepare for an ECG?

Nil, although patients may prefer to wear a two-piece outfit (e.g. shirt and pants or skirt), as they will be asked to lift up or remove their shirt to attach arm and chest electrodes. Patients may be asked to remove tights/stockings or slightly adjust pants to attach the leg electrodes. If patients have hairy legs or chest the technician may shave a small patch in order to stick the electrodes to the skin. It is best to avoid moisturiser on the day of the test as this may affect the adherence of electrodes.

How long does an ECG take?

An ECG takes only about 5 minutes, but allow around 15 minutes for appointments to check in.