Cardiology

Many cardio diagnostic services are performed at Bluewater Health, including:

Cardiac Stress Test

A cardiac stress test typically involves a person exercising on a treadmill or stationary bike at increasing rates of difficulty. While on the exercise equipment, the person's heart rate, blood pressure and electrocardiogram are measured.

Echocardiography

A standard echocardiogram (echo), also known as a transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), is an imaging technology that uses ultrasound to create images of your heart. It is a diagnostic test used to examine the heart and its blood supply, determine how large the heart is, how well it contracts, and how the valves function.

At times, it may be difficult to obtain clear images during your echocardiogram. If this is experienced, the Cardiac Sonographer may suggest using and echocardiographic enhancing (contrast) agent in order to improve image quality and provide greater detail of the structure and function of your heart.

An Agitated Saline study is used as an additional component to a regular transthoracic or transesophageal echocardiogram in order to assist in detecting an intracardiac shunt. This test involves agitating saline between two syringes and then administering that agitated saline through a peripheral intravenous (IV) catheter located in the arm.

EKG (Electrocardiogram)

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a test that checks how your heart is functioning by measuring the electrical activity of the heart.

Holter Monitoring

Holter monitoring is primarily an outpatient test. The holter monitor is worn by the patient for 24/48 hours. The heart's rhythm is recorded electronically on the device during this time. It is later scanned by the cardiology technologist and reviewed by an internist or cardiologist.

Pacemaker Checks

A series of follow-up appointments is booked after initial pacemaker insertion to assess the function and battery life of the pacemaker.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram

A Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) is a test in which a small transducer attached to the end of a flexible tube is used to record images of your heart. This tube will be passed into your mouth and down your esophagus (food pipe) until it sits behind your heart. This technique allows the doctor to assess the structure and function of your heart in more detail without interference from the ribs and lungs. A TEE is often ordered when the results from a standard echocardiogram are insufficient, or when your doctor wants to take a closer look at your heart.