Heart Care Testing

A number of tests can be performed to determine the health of your heart. Diagnostic testing available at St. John's includes:

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram uses sound waves to see images of the heart muscle, valves and function of the heart. A special instrument called a transducer is held on the chest by a technologist. The transducer picks up sound waves and uses them to create and project a picture of the heart on a screen. A recording is made for the cardiologist to review at a later time. The test takes approximately 30 minutes.

Stress testing

A stress test measures your heart's function during physical activity. It shows the changes in the electrical system of the heart during physical stress. Depending on your physical ability, the test may be done while you walk on a treadmill or your doctor may give you a drug that simulates exercise by causing your heart to gradually beat faster and stronger. The tests generally take 60 to 90 minutes to complete.

Nuclear studies

A tracer (small amount of radioactive material) is given to you through a vein in your arm. A camera scans the tracer as it flows through your heart. Areas of the heart muscle that have good blood flow pick up the tracer material quickly, while areas that have less blood flow do not. The test takes approximately three to four hours.

Holter Monitoring

A small electronic recorder is used to record your heart's rhythm while you continue your normal at-home or at-work activities. The monitoring will take place for approximately 24 or 48 hours, during which time you will be asked to keep a diary of your activities and symptoms. Your doctor will let you know the amount of time for your particular test.