Cardiac and Peripheral Vascular Center
2nd Flr., Podium Building, The Medical City, Ortigas Ave. Pasig City
Operating Hours: Mon – Sat / 8 AM to 5 PM; Sunday and Holidays / 8 AM – 5 PM (but no special procedure)
8-988-1000/8-988-7000 ext. 6299

PATIENT SERVICES

Dobutamine Stress Echo Testing in the Philippines

What is the Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram?

A dobutamine stress echocardiogram (DSE) is a specialized diagnostic test that combines echocardiography with pharmacological stress to evaluate heart function. Unlike traditional echo stress tests that require physical exercise, DSE uses dobutamine, a type of medicine that stimulates the heart, causing it to beat faster and harder as if the patient were exercising. This test is particularly useful for individuals who are unable to perform physical exercise due to various medical conditions. During the procedure, a transducer emits ultrasonic sound waves that create images of the heart's structures and functions. These images are captured both at rest and during the infusion of dobutamine, allowing healthcare providers to assess how well the heart performs under stress. The test is instrumental in identifying issues such as coronary artery disease (CAD), heart valve problems, and other cardiac conditions.

Who Can Benefit from This Procedure?

The dobutamine stress echo is beneficial for a wide range of patients, particularly those who cannot participate in standard exercise stress tests. This includes individuals with:

• Musculoskeletal disorders: Patients with joint pain or mobility issues may find it difficult to walk on a treadmill.
• Pulmonary conditions: Those with respiratory problems may not be able to exert themselves adequately during physical exercise.
• Cardiac conditions: Patients recovering from heart surgery or those with a history of heart attacks may require a safer alternative to traditional stress tests.

Additionally, DSE is valuable for assessing the severity of known heart conditions, determining safe exercise limits before rehabilitation, and evaluating the effectiveness of treatments for heart disease.

When Should You Have This Procedure Done?

Consultation with a cardiologist is essential to determine the appropriateness of a dobutamine stress echo test. This procedure may be recommended if:

• You have symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain or shortness of breath.
• You are recovering from a cardiac event and need to assess your heart's functional capacity.
• You require a pre-operative evaluation before heart surgery.

Your doctor will consider your medical history, current symptoms, and any medications you are taking before recommending this test. It is crucial to discuss any concerns or questions with your doctor to ensure that the DSE is the right option for your specific situation.

How Does the Procedure Work?

A dobutamine stress echo test in the Philippines is performed in a controlled medical environment, typically an outpatient setting. The procedure involves several key steps:

1. Preparation: Patients are asked to remove clothing from the waist up and lie on an examination table. Electrodes are attached to monitor the heart's electrical activity (ECG), and an intravenous (IV) line is established for dobutamine administration.
2. Baseline Measurements: Initial heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG readings are taken to establish a baseline before the medication is administered.
3. Dobutamine Infusion: Dobutamine is injected through the IV line at gradually increasing doses. The healthcare provider monitors the patient's heart rate and blood pressure throughout the process. As the dosage increases, the heart rate will rise, mimicking the effects of exercise.
4. Echocardiography: Ultrasound images of the heart are taken at various stages during the infusion, allowing for the assessment of heart function under stress.
5. Recovery: Once the desired heart rate is achieved or if any concerning symptoms arise, the dobutamine infusion is stopped. The heart rate and blood pressure are monitored until they return to baseline levels, typically within 5 to 10 minutes.

What Can You Expect After the Procedure?

After completing the dobutamine stress echocardiogram, patients can generally resume their normal activities, although some may experience temporary side effects. Common post-procedure experiences include:

• Monitoring: Patients will be monitored for about 30 minutes to ensure that their heart rate and blood pressure stabilize.
• Possible Side Effects: Some individuals may experience mild symptoms such as flushing, palpitations, or dizziness, which usually resolve quickly once the medication is discontinued.
• Follow-Up: The healthcare provider will review the echocardiogram results during a follow-up appointment. Depending on the findings, additional tests or treatments may be recommended.