At Spire Parkway Hospital we have a range of heart assessments designed to help give you peace of mind.
Our friendly, professional team will ensure you receive excellent care that encompasses not only what you would expect from our consultant cardiologists but also the attention of our highly experienced cardiac technicians and support staff.
We offer a range of non-invasive cardiology investigations to help your consultant or GP assess the health of your heart. These include:
- 24/48 Hr/7 day ECG Holter
A Holter monitor is a machine that continuously records the heart's rhythms. The monitor is usually worn for 24 - 48 hours during normal activity but can be fitted for 7 days if requested by your clinician.
- Long-term ECG Event Recorder (4 weeks)
If you suffer from only occasional symptoms, this monitor is provided for longer periods of time in order to capture information regarding the event.
- ECG (Electrocardiogram)
An ECG measures the electrical activity of your heart as you lay on an examination couch. Ten electrodes are placed on your wrists, ankles and chest as you relax. The electrodes are connected to a machine recording all the electrical signals from your heart. Analysis of the results can indicate any damage to the heart muscle. The test may also detect changes in heart rhythm as well as abnormalities in the signals themselves.
- 24 Hr and/or 48 Hr Blood Pressure monitor
Record the change in blood pressure with activity by measuring your blood pressure at intervals over a period of time.
- Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram can provide a range of information including the size, function and pressures of the heart, as well as information for assessing disease of the heart valves.
- Transoesophageal Echo (TOE)
A Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TOE) allows your consultant to undertake a graphic outline of the heart's movement, valves and chambers. During a TOE, an endoscopic probe is placed in the oesophagus via an endoscopic procedure; this provides pictures of the heart's valves and chambers and helps the consultant evaluate the pumping action of the heart.
- Exercise Treadmill Test (ETT)
Assesses the blood supply to the muscle of the heart via the coronary arteries, or assesses the heart’s response to exercise.
- Tilt Table Test
This test involves being placed on a table with a foot-support. The table is then tilted upwards and blood pressure and pulse are measured and symptoms are recorded with you in diverse positions.
- Pacemaker checks
Ensures all pacemaker settings are optimised, to maximise battery life and help tailor functions to improve your quality of life.
Please note that a GP referral is necessary for all cardiac diagnostic assessments.