+30 210 46 11 204
+30 210 46 11 204
The Cardiology Laboratory of Cosmoclinic specializes in the identification and diagnosis of heart diseases. As an integral part of the comprehensive cardiac care offered by the Cardiology Department, it contributes to the prevention, treatment, and monitoring of cardiovascular diseases.
The following cardiology tests are performed at our Laboratory:
Treadmill Stress Test
What it is: Also known as a stress test, the treadmill stress test is a simple and reliable examination that contributes to the diagnosis and monitoring of coronary artery disease by evaluating cardiac function under physical stress. The examinee performs controlled physical exercise, during and after which there is continuous electrocardiographic monitoring.
How it is performed: To conduct the test, a treadmill is used, similar to a gym treadmill, on which the examinee walks while wearing electrocardiogram electrodes. The speed and incline of the treadmill increase every three minutes, according to a specific protocol (usually the Bruce protocol), until the target heart rate is reached or the examinee feels fatigue. Throughout the duration, the physician monitors the blood pressure and the heart’s electrical activity.
When it is indicated:
For the diagnosis of coronary artery disease in patients with chest pain or other suspicious symptoms.
To evaluate the effectiveness of treatment in patients with known coronary artery disease.
To assess cardiac function after a myocardial infarction (heart attack) or heart surgery.
For the evaluation of exercise-induced arrhythmias.
As part of a preventive check-up (check-up) for individuals with risk factors (smoking, hypertension, diabetes, heredity).
Patient Preparation:
It is recommended to wear comfortable clothes and sports shoes.
A light meal is allowed at least 3 hours before the test.
Smoking and caffeine consumption should be avoided for at least 3 hours prior.
The physician must be informed about any medications the patient is taking, as some (e.g., beta-blockers) may need to be discontinued a day or two before.
Duration: The total time for the test, including preparation and recovery, is approximately 30 minutes.
Holter Monitoring (Rhythm and Blood Pressure)
What it is:
This is a portable device that records the heart's electrical activity (Rhythm Holter) or arterial pressure (Pressure Holter) over a long period, usually 24 to 48 hours. It allows for the detection of disorders that may not be apparent during a simple clinical examination or a typical electrocardiogram.
How it is performed:
For Rhythm Holter: Small electrodes are placed on the patient's chest and connected to a small recording device worn on the waist or around the neck. The patient follows their normal daily activities and is asked to keep a diary of any symptoms (e.g., palpitations, dizziness).
For Pressure Holter: A special cuff is placed on the arm, connected to a recording device. The device automatically measures blood pressure at regular intervals (usually every 15–30 minutes) throughout the day and night.
When it is indicated:
To investigate arrhythmias or bradycardia.
To investigate unexplained fainting episodes (syncope) or dizziness.
To evaluate the effectiveness of antiarrhythmic or antihypertensive treatment.
To diagnose "white coat hypertension" or "masked hypertension."
To record blood pressure variations during sleep.
Patient Preparation: No special preparation is required. Patients are advised to shower before the device is placed, as they will not be able to do so while wearing it.
Duration: The recording usually lasts 24 or 48 hours.
Transthoracic Echocardiogram (Heart Ultrasound - Triplex)
What it is:
This is a painless diagnostic test that uses ultrasound to create live images of the heart. It provides valuable information about the structure and function of the heart chambers, as well as the heart valves, through which blood is pumped into the aorta and then to the rest of the body. Additionally, it allows for the assessment of pressures inside the heart, the detection of pulmonary hypertension or fluid in the pericardial space, and the visualization of the large vessels surrounding it. Finally, it provides data on the heart's ability to pump blood to the body, known as the “ejection fraction.”
In the Cardiology Laboratory of Cosmoclinic, the following Triplex scans are performed:
Abdominal Aorta
Carotid and Vertebral Arteries
Lower and Upper Extremity Arteries
Lower and Upper Extremity Veins
Renal Arteries
Iliac Arteries
Splenoportal Axis
Scrotal Veins
What it can diagnose:
Mild alterations, at the edge of normal (mild valve insufficiencies and small pericardial effusions).
Existence of valvular heart disease (stenosis or insufficiency of heart valves).
Hypertrophy of the heart walls (e.g., due to hypertension).
Dilatation of heart chambers (heart failure).
Disorders of the heart wall motility (e.g., after an old myocardial infarction).
Congenital heart diseases (from birth).
Presence of fluid in the pericardium (pericarditis).
Aneurysms or dissections of the aorta.
How it is performed:
The patient lies on their left side or back. The cardiologist applies a special gel to the chest and uses a transducer (probe) to receive the images on a screen. The test is completely safe and has no radiation.
Patient Preparation:
No preparation is required.
Duration:
The test lasts approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
