ECGAn electrocardiogram (ECG) is a medical test that detects cardiac (heart) abnormalities by measuring the electrical activity generated by the heart as it contracts. The machine that records the ECG is called an electrograph. The electrograph records the electrical activity of the heart muscle and displays this data as a trace on a screen or on paper. This data is then interpreted by the cardiologist. ECG’s from normal, healthy hearts have a characteristic shape. Any irregularity in the heart rhythm or damage to the heart muscle can change the electrical activity of the heart so that the shape of the ECG is changed. |  |
 | 24 Hour Blood Pressure MonitorA 24 hour blood pressure monitor is a postable blood pressure monitor that is worn for 24hours on a belt connected to a cuff on the upper arm. It provides a more accurate overall assessment of the patient’s blood pressure as it measures blood pressure and heart rate while continuing with daily tasks and is also worn when sleeping. |
HeartbugHeartbug is a small device that record the patients ECG over a 28 day period through an app on their smart phone. It is worn contiuously during the 28 day period and patients continue theiir normal activities during the monitoring period. It can remain on while showering. |  |
 | EchocardiogramAn Echocardiogram is a test that uses ultrasound to assess the structure and function of the heart. The sonographer places some small dots on the chest to monitor heart rate and places an ultrasound probe and gel at various places on the chest. During the study you will hear noises which reflect the blood flow through your heart. Ultrasound is a safe modality and does not pose any risks to the patient. The test takes between 30-40mins and there are no special requirements before the test. |
Stress EchocardiogramA Stress Echocardiogram requires you to exercise for a short period on a treadmill while your heart rhythm and blood pressure is being monitored. Ultrasound images will be taken of the heart before and after exercise. This allows the cardiologist to assess for any changes in your hearts function at rest and at exercise that might indicate disease. The test takes approximately 30minutes and you will be given instructions prior to your test regarding preparation and medication to stop before the test. |  |
 | Pacemaker/ Implanted Defibrillator & loop recorder checkPacemaker checks are carried out at the time of implantation and at regular intervals thereafter. Dr David Chieng performs Pacemaker checks at our clinics in Wonthaggi, Noble Park and Cabrini. When checked, information is gathered about the battery and general performance of the implant. Most pacemakers also store information about the rhythm of the heart when it is not being paced. Depending on the type of pacemaker or defibrillator, checks can be between 3 to 12months. |
Victorian Heart and Lung Clinic offer bulk billing for Holter Monitors, 24 hr Blood Pressure Monitors, Echocardiogram, Stress Echocardiogram and implanted device (pacemaker, loop recorder and defibrillator ) checks.