What is this procedure?
A transthoracic echocardiogram is a cardiac test that employs ultrasound to take images of the heart. Your Sonographer will place an ultrasound probe on your chest wall and use sound waves aimed at the heart. These sound waves will bounce off of the heart and produce a series of images that will help your cardiologist understand the size and structure of your heart, the blood flow to your heart as well as the function of the valves in your heart.
In a stress echocardiogram, your Sonographer will use an echocardiography imaging machine in conjunction with a treadmill to image your heart before and after exercise.

How do I prepare for this procedure?

Valid OHIP Card to your appointment.
Signed requisition from your physician.
Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to check in. The receptionist will verify your information and admit you for the procedure.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing on the day of your test as well as a list of any medications you are taking.
Do not use cream or lotion on your upper body on the day of the test.
If you are taking any Beta Blocker medication (Bisoprolol, Atenolol, Metoprolol, etc.), please speak with your referring physician to seek approval to discontinue the medication 48 hours before your test. Always speak to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication.

Duration of the procedure?
This procedure will take approximately 1 – 1.5 hours to complete.

What is this procedure?
An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a procedure utilized to measure and record the electrical activity of your heart muscles. This test is quick, safe and will not involve any discomfort.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
Valid OHIP Card to your appointment.
Please also bring a signed requisition from your physician and arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to check in. The receptionist will verify your information and admit you for the procedure.
Do not use cream or lotion on your upper body on the day of the test.

Duration of the procedure
This procedure takes approximately 5-10 minutes to complete.

What is this procedure?

This is an ambulatory blood pressure cuff that will take your blood pressure every half hour during the day and every hour during the night. This is an automated cuff, therefore, you will not need to record blood pressure readings. This service is not covered by OHP and there is a $50.00 fee.

How long will this procedure take?

This procedure will take approximately 15 minutes to complete.

What is this procedure?
An exercise stress test has a variety of applications. It can be used to determine if there is coronary artery disease, exercise-induced abnormal cardiac rhythms and your exercise capacity which can be used to facilitate cardiac rehabilitation. You will walk on a treadmill that will increase in speed to get your heart rate to target required for this test.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
Valid OHIP Card to your appointment.
Signed requisition from your physician.
Arrive 1 5 minutes before your appointment to check in. The receptionist will verify your information and admit you for the procedure.
Wear comfortable shoes and clothing on the day of your test.
Do not use cream or lotion on your upper body on the day of the test.
Complete list of any medications you are taking. If you are taking any Beta Blocker medication (Bisoprolol, Atenolol, Metoprolol, etc.), please speak with your referring physician to seek approval to discontinue the medication 48 hours before your test. Always speak to your healthcare provider before stopping any medication.
What is the process?
Your Sonographer and the team will place a series of EKG electrodes on your chest and connect you to wires that are attached to the treadmill computer. You technologist will then complete a resting EKG and blood pressure to determine your condition at rest. After that, you will start to walk on the treadmill at a low speed and inclination that gradually increase until you feel that you cannot continue. You are in control and always remember to let your technologist know how you are feeling.
How long will this procedure take?
This procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to complete.

What is this procedure?
A dobutamine stress echocardiogram (DSE) may be used if you are unable to exercise. Dobutamine is put in a vein and causes the heart to beat faster. It mimics the effects of exercise on the heart.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
Valid OHIP Card to your appointment. If you do not have an OHIP Card, please bring another form of government issued ID such as (Drivers License, Passport, or another provincial health card).
Signed requisition from your physician
Arrive 1 5 minutes before your appointment to check in. The receptionist will verify your information and admit you for the procedure.
You will be asked to sign a consent form that gives your permission to do the test. Read the form carefully and ask questions if anything is not clear.
How long will this procedure take?
This procedure will take approximately 1.5-2 hours to complete.

What is this procedure?
A Holter monitor is a device which records the rhythm of your heart. The Holter may be worn for 24, 48, 72 hours or 7 and 14 days. This monitor can identify abnormal rhythms in your heart while you go about your day and while you sleep. This information can help your physician to understand your hearts electrical activity over the specified period.
How do I prepare for this procedure?
Valid OHIP Card to your appointment.
Please also bring a signed requisition from your physician
Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to check in.
Do not use cream or lotion on your upper body on the day of the test.
What should I be aware of?
The staff will provide you with instructions for your monitor type. Typically showering is prohibited for 24, and 48-hour monitors while permitted for 72 hour monitor as well as 7 and 14 day Holter monitors.
Duration of the procedure?
This procedure takes approximately 15 minutes to set-up. You will have to return your Holter monitor at the end of the required wearing period.