The patient’s cardiac status is assessed by sophisticated diagnostic equipments. It includes
12 channel Electrocardiography(ECG) – The Electrocardiogram is a pictorial record of the electrical activity of the heart, which gives doctors an idea of its functioning. Abnormalities in rhythm, size, structure, electrical pathways and blood supply of the heart can be detected with this simple investigation.
Exercise Stress testing or Treadmill test – Indication –The test is mainly used to estimate the likelihood and extent of coronary artery disease(CAD), and to determine prognosis and functional capacity, and the effects of therapy. Less common indications include evaluation of symptomatic recurrent exercise induced arrhythmias and conduction disturbances. The Stress Room is adequately equipped with emergency devices such as cardiac defibrillator, oxygen cylinders and life-saving medication.
24 hour Holter monitoring – The electrical activity of the heart is monitored continuously while the patient is ambulatory over a certain period ( usually done over 24 hours ), for evaluation of any rhythm disturbance , ischaemia etc.
Echocardiography and Colour Doppler – Echocardiography has become the standard diagnostic technique in modern cardiac care. Echo is often combined with Doppler ultrasound and color Doppler to evaluate blood flow across the heart’s valves.
Chest Pain Unit-CPU (Rapid triage of patients with chest pain) – Helps in the rapid assessment of patients who present with complaints of chest discomfort or other symptoms consistent with possible acute coronary syndrome. The CPU provides up to six hours of observation, serial ECG recording and biochemical cardiac testing including CK-MB and troponin. The patient is admitted if any of the following are recorded: >1mm ST elevation or depression in any two contiguous leads; T wave changes unrelated to posture or hyperventilation; arrhythmia; 2nd or 3rd degree heart block; or left bundle branch block or if cardiac enzymes are elevated.
