Cardiology

Electrodiagnostic testing is the process of using electrical technology to track biological function and identify any abnormalities. Cardio electrodiagnostic exams include stress tests, electrocardiograms (EKG), echocardiograms and electromyograms. Electrodiagnostic testing is non-invasive, and you should experience little to no discomfort.

Our non-invasive Cardiac Diagnostics Department at St. Joseph Regional Medical Center performs the following procedures both inpatient and outpatient:

• EKG (electrocardiogram)
• Cardiac stress testing with and without imaging
• Cardiac event monitoring with Holter monitors and event recorders for 30 days at a time 
• Echocardiograms including transesophageal echocardiograms
• Calcium scoring

Echocardiogram involves using sound waves to create real-time imaging of the heart muscle. Depending on the echocardiography ordered by the physician, dyes and saline may be inserted intravenously to provide contrast during the imaging. Echocardiograms are non-invasive and painless. You should expect the procedure to be no different than a routine ultrasound.

Also called a nuclear stress test, the myocardial perfusion imaging screening involves capturing recordings of the heart’s blood flow during strenuous activity. The beginning of the test involves attaching you to an IV line. You will then participate in monitored exercise until peak activity level has been reached. Once the heart rate is in the desired range, the radioactive medicine will be inserted through the IV into your bloodstream. Then, a specialized camera will take photos of your heart, made visible by nuclear medicine. The process usually takes no more than an hour and is non-invasive. Other than some exercise discomfort or fatigue, you should expect a pain-free experience.

The Holter Monitor tracks electronic signals of the heart during a one-to-two-day period. You will be properly fitted to the monitor and instructed on information to record during the testing period. The cardiologist will be able to access the history of recordings to identify any abnormalities that require further testing.

St. Joe’s Cardiopulmonary Services focus on facilitating recovery and greater quality of life for individuals suffering from heart and lung illness. We can assist patients who require pulmonary function tests, breathing treatments and continuous positive airway pressure.