Spire Leeds' cardiology centre is one of the largest in the region

Located on the ground floor of Spire Leeds Hospital, the out-patient cardiology testing centre is staffed by a team of specialist cardiology physiologists, technicians and nurses.

The centre offers a comprehensive range of tests for patients with heart and respiratory conditions including:

Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An ECG measures the electrical activity of your heart as you lay on an examination couch. During the 20-30 minute appointment, 10 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 detect abnormalities in the rate, rhythm or electrophysiology of the heart as well as sometimes giving an indication towards structural or functional abnormalities.

24/48/7 day ECG Holter
A Holter monitor is a machine that continually records an ECG over a period of time. Analysis can identify any changes to the rate or rhythm of the heart over this time period. The monitor can be worn for 24 hours or up to a period of 7 days. 

Stress ECG test
A stress test is often used to assess the heart’s response to exercise. An ECG recording and blood pressure reading is taken at rest and again whilst you are exercising on a treadmill.

2D echocardiogram
An echocardiogram provides a specialised ultrasound scan of the heart which gives details on the heart valves as well as the size, function and pressures of the heart.
 
Stress echocardiogram (treadmill)
A stress echocardiogram is a non-invasive test carried out by a specialist consultant. It is frequently used in the evaluation of coronary artery disease or to assess the heart's functional response to exercise. A set of baseline ultrasound images are acquired at rest. You will then be asked to exercise on a treadmill whilst being monitored by an ECG. A further ultrasound scan is carried out immediately after exercise and compared with resting images to identify any stress related abnormalities of the heart. 

Stress echocardiogram (medication)
If you are unable to perform a treadmill exercise test, a stress echo can be performed using medication. The drug is administered via an injection and mimics the effect of exercise on the heart.

Contract echocardiogram (medication)
A standard echocardiogram can be performed using a contrast agent. This is usually a solution containing tiny microscopic bubbles that reflect the ultrasound and help to define the heart chambers clearly. A contrast echocardiogram is often performed when images from a standard 2D echocardiogram are unclear and difficult to analyse. 

24hr blood pressure monitor
This records the changes in blood pressure by measuring it over a 24 hour period.

Blood pressure monitor
A 30 minute appointment suitable for anyone wishing to check their blood pressure regularly.

Bubble study
A bubble study is a useful test for establishing the presence of a hole in the heart or PFO (patient foramen ovale). Whilst ultrasound images are taken a consultant cardiologist injects an agitated saline solution. These bubbles should be filtered out by the lungs and hence should only be seen on the right side of the heart. If they are seen on the left side of the heart this indicates a positive test and an opening between the two sides of the heart. Some of the indications for a bubble study include, suspected hole in the heart, PFO, Stroke (under 55years), migraine and transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

Pacing and ICD follow-up checks
Pacemakers and Internal Cardiac Defibrillators are implanted in the daycase/in-patient department within the cardiology centre. A non-invasive follow-up service is also provided in in the out-patient cardiology department. An experienced physiologist routinely checks that the device is functioning appropriately and optimises any therapies or settings to benefit the patient. 

Basic spirometry
A spirometry test measures how quickly you exhale air from your lungs. This helps to identify how well your lungs are working.

Full lung function tests
A variety of tests are performed to measure the function of your lungs. These include helium dilultion and body box tests.

Reversibility studies
Reversibility tests are used to diagnose asthma. Measurements are taken of your breathing before and after treatment.

Osmohale provocation
Osmohale provocation is a test used to establish whether or not you have airways sensitivity.

Paediatric cardiology 
Paediatric cardiology tests available at Spire Leeds include 12 lead ECG, flow volume loops (basic spirometry), 24hr ECG and blood pressure monitors.

Click here for information on the cardiology day case/in-patient diagnostic and surgery centre.