Diagnostic Cardiac Testing

Munson Healthcare cardiologists travel throughout northern Michigan and work with community hospitals around the region so patients can receive close-to-home diagnostic cardiac testing services. Our team of cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, and physicians from multiple disciplines can view all diagnostic tests and collaborate to determine the best treatment plan for you and your heart.

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Cardiolite Stress Test

The Cardiolite® Stress Test is a cardiac test used to determine how well your heart is working. A special camera captures detailed pictures of how your heart functions at rest and during exercise to help your physician determine if your heart muscle is getting sufficient blood supply.

Available at the following locations:

 

3D Echocardiography

With the latest 3D echocardiography software and equipment, our cardiologists and sonographers provide real-time comprehensive high resolution 3D images that allow precise identification of the damaged area and disease processes responsible for heart dysfunction. 3D transesophageal echocardiography is considered mandatory prior to mitral valve reconstruction.

Available at the following locations:

 

Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG)

An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a cardiac test that measures the electrical activity of your heart. The heart generates an electrical signal that flows out from your heart through your body. Small electrical sensors, called electrodes, are put on your skin to sense the electricity that began in your heart. The electrical activity is then turned into a graph. This can give doctors an idea of whether your heart is beating normally.

Available at the following locations:

 

Electrophysiology (EP) Study

An EP study is a cardiac test that looks at your heart's electrical function and locates sites inside your heart that may be causing abnormal heart rhythms. It is performed in a special lab by an electrophysiologist (a cardiologist who specializes in studying and treating the electrical system of the heart) working with a team of highly-skilled nurses and technologists. During an EP study, electrode wires are passed through a blood vessel and into your heart. This electrode can record or create electrical activity to help find any problems with the flow of electricity in your heart.

Available at the following locations:

Holter Monitor Study

A Holter monitor is a cardiac test that records ECG information over an extended period of time in order to "capture" and then diagnose abnormal heart rhythms that may occur during your daily routine. A small monitor worn under your clothes will help assess recurring symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, and rapid heartbeat to determine whether they are caused by an abnormal rhythm. It also may show whether certain areas of the heart muscle are receiving adequate blood supply, and will help your physician evaluate the effectiveness of medications or pacemakers that help control heart rhythms.

Available at the following locations:

 

Stress Echocardiogram

Your physician may order an echocardiogram to be done with an exercise (stress) test to determine how your heart functions when it's made to work harder through exercise. If you're unable to exercise (usually walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bicycle) to the needed level of exertion during the cardiac test, your physician may use a drug to stress your heart. The most commonly used medication is Dobutamine. This drug stimulates the heart to create an effect similar to vigorous exercise. Your stress echo will be performed by a cardiologist who will be assisted by a technician called a sonographer. A sonographer has received special training in operating the echo equipment to make sure the most detailed pictures of your heart are obtained.

Available at the following locations:

 

Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE)

A TEE cardiac test provides clearer and more detailed pictures than a standard echocardiogram because the ultrasound probe is moved inside your body. Since your esophagus (the passageway from your mouth to your stomach) passes very close to your heart, placing the ultrasound probe down the esophagus gives a much better and more detailed picture of your heart. Your TEE will be performed by a cardiologist who has special expertise in this procedure. The cardiologist will be assisted by an ultrasound technician called a sonographer. A nurse will also be present to administer medications, monitor your blood pressure and pulse, and supervise the recovery process.

Available at the following locations: