A number of diagnostic investigations are commonly performed to understand the origin and the nature of a cardiac arrhythmia.

12 lead electrocardiogram (ECG)
This is the basic tool for the Cardiologist to locate the electrical activation of the heart. With 10 cables fixed to the patient’s chest and limb, this allows to measure the heart rhythm at rest during exercise conditions. An ECG during a typical arrhythmia episode allows to diagnose the type of an arrhythmia and in almost all instances to locate it’s exact origin inside the heart.

Holter recording
This ECG can record the heart’s activity for a longer duration. The most common duration is now for 7 days and allows the patient to carry on with all normal routines. Exercise and taking showers are still possible and a detailed diary is essential.
The device is now send by mail, such that a visit to the hospital or private offices is no longer necessary.

Echocardiogram
This is an ultrasound study of the heart from the outside. It allows a good understanding of the structure and function of the heart muscle itself. The dimensions of the cardiac chambers are measured and the function of the heart valve assessed. The larger the atrial chambers the higher the risk for atrial arrhythmia, and equally enlarged ventricular chambers especially with reduced pumping function increases the risk for ventricular arrhythmia.

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR or MRI)
An even more detailed assessment of the heart and its components is achieved by CMR/MRI. In addition, 3D reconstructions of the entire heart provide a personalized 3D road map of each patient’s heart for invasive procedures without the risk of radiation exposure. When additional infusions such as gadolinium are given during a scan, then scar areas and the uptake of the oxygen into the heart muscle can be tested.

Computed tomography (CT) imaging
Consisting of multiple slices of x-ray generated images which also allow 3D reconstructions of the heart, albeit with the disadvantage of exposure to radiation. Contrast infusion is necessary, especially when the arteries of the heart (the so-called coronary arteries) need to be visualised.

Event recorder
These devices can typically be connected to the patient’s smartphone and therefore are available at all times. They typically record a single lead ECG and the result can be send by email directly to us.