Dobutamine Stress Echocardiograph

Westmead Private Cardiology offer
the Dobutamine Stress Echocardiograph service in clinic:

What is a Stress Echocardiogram?

A Stress Echocardiogram is a test that combines both an Echocardiogram and a Stress test.

An Echocardiogram or Cardiac Echo is an ultrasound of the heart. This is done by obtaining two dimensional and Doppler (blood flow) images with an ultrasound device. Ultrasound waves are sent into the chest using a probe, with ultrasound gel, that is moved over various angles. The sound waves are transformed into pictures, which allow evaluation of the structure, size, function and valves of the heart.

A Stress Test is a procedure where you are monitored using an ECG and a blood pressure cuff while being stressed.

Dobutamine (Chemically induced – if you are unable to walk on the treadmill)

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You will receive an intravenous line (IV) through which medication is given over time to increase the workload of the heart, simulating exercise. You will be lying down on a bed.
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An Echo is performed at rest and at select stages during the administering of the medication.
Your heart rate, blood pressure, symptoms, fitness, physical endurance and ECG changes are carefully assessed. The Echo pictures at rest and peak stress are compared to evaluate how the heart responds to stress or added workload. You will be asked to sign a form to give permission to do the test.
Are there any risks to this procedure?
Echocardiography is a safe and painless procedure.
The risks of the stress portion of the test are rare but may include chest pain, elevated blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, dizziness and very rarely heart attack. Dobutamine may cause nausea and fatigue. Experienced medical staff are in attendance to manage the rare complications.
Please notify staff if you have any allergies.
Are there any limitations to a stress echocardiogram?
If a patient is able to achieve the target heart rate and if the echo images are of good technical quality, a Stress Echo is capable of diagnosing important disease in more than 85% of patients with coronary artery disease. Also, it can exclude important disease in more than 90% of cases when the test is absolutely normal.
Why do I need a Stress Echocardiogram?

A Stress Echocardiogram can help assess:

  • stress and exercise tolerance in patients with known or suspected coronary artery disease
  • the degree of known valvular disease
  • the cardiac status of a patient about to undergo surgery
  • the pulmonary pressures
How to prepare?
  • Stop taking your beta blockers or calcium channel blockers as instructed by your physician.
  • Wear a shirt that can easily be removed.  Shirt and bra will be removed by women.
  • Please wear flat comfortable shoes which will remain firmly on your feet for walking on the treadmill.  Do not wear sandals, heels, slippers etc.

If you are taking any medications, please bring them with you.

How long is the test?
The test will take approximately 1-2 hours.
When will I get my results?
Your results will be discussed with you by your doctor after your test is complete.

If you have any questions about your test or instructions, please call us on 02 9687 0866.

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For urgent referrals, please call us
in clinic on 02 9687 0866

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