What are the examination items in cardiology?

Apr 17, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Tian Hongbo

Introduction

An electrocardiogram (ECG) records the heart's electrical activity and helps detect arrhythmias, serving as a basis for diagnosing conditions such as myocardial ischemia. Echocardiography evaluates the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels, assessing cardiac ejection function and identifying valve abnormalities such as regurgitation or stenosis. Coronary angiography visualizes the course and number of coronary arteries, helping determine the severity and extent of coronary artery disease.

Generally, cardiovascular examinations include electrocardiogram (ECG), echocardiography, coronary angiography, etc. The details are as follows:

1. Electrocardiogram (ECG)

The ECG is a fundamental test in cardiovascular evaluation. It records the heart's electrical activity to detect arrhythmias and serves as a basis for diagnosing conditions such as myocardial ischemia and myocardial infarction.

2. Echocardiography

This test evaluates whether the structure and function of the heart and blood vessels are normal. It helps assess cardiac ejection function and detect valve abnormalities such as regurgitation or stenosis.

3. Coronary Angiography

This procedure visualizes the course and number of coronary arteries, and helps determine the severity and extent of coronary artery disease. It is particularly useful for patients with coronary atherosclerotic heart disease to clearly define the condition.

In addition, other tests such as coronary CT angiography and chest X-ray may also be used. When experiencing any symptoms of discomfort, individuals should undergo appropriate evaluations under a doctor’s guidance to identify the underlying cause and receive timely treatment.

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Should heart conditions be treated by cardiology or cardiac surgery?

Whether heart conditions should be treated by cardiology or cardiac surgery depends on the type of disease. Cardiology focuses on diagnosing and treating conditions such as angina, heart failure, and arrhythmias; patients with these symptoms should visit the cardiology department. Cardiothoracic surgery deals with diagnoses and treatments including traumatic injuries to the heart and major blood vessels, surgical treatment of arrhythmias, and heart, lung, or heart-lung transplants; patients with these conditions typically need to seek care in the cardiac surgery department.

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Should coronary heart disease be treated by a cardiologist or a cardiac surgeon?

Coronary heart disease refers to coronary atherosclerotic heart disease. Cardiology refers to cardiovascular medicine, while cardiac surgery refers to cardiovascular surgery. Whether a patient with coronary atherosclerotic heart disease should see a cardiovascular medicine specialist or a cardiovascular surgeon depends on the individual's specific condition. Patients can seek appropriate medical care under the guidance of a specialist according to their personal circumstances.

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What tests are generally performed during a visit to the cardiology department?

There are many tests available in cardiology. Electrocardiography (ECG) can record the heart rate and myocardial blood supply at the time of examination, which is diagnostically significant for conditions such as coronary heart disease and arrhythmias. Echocardiography (cardiac ultrasound) helps evaluate structural damage to the heart, such as valve abnormalities, and is important in diagnosing cardiomyopathy and valvular heart disease. Coronary angiography allows assessment of the number, course, and extent of lesions in the coronary arteries.

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What tests are included in a cardiology examination?

The cardiology department is a specialized unit responsible for the diagnosis and treatment of cardiovascular diseases. Its diagnostic procedures include clinical evaluation and medical history collection, physical examination, electrocardiogram (ECG), blood tests, and cardiac ultrasound. Physicians will begin with a detailed clinical assessment, possibly inquiring about symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, and evaluating relevant risk factors such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes.