Heart health is the foundation of a long, active life. However, many cardiac conditions develop silently, showing symptoms only when they have significantly progressed. As a specialist in Minimally Invasive and Robotic Cardiac Surgery, I emphasize that early detection is not just a precaution—it is a life-saving step.
Identifying heart issues early allows for a wider range of treatment options, including “Keyhole” procedures that offer faster recovery and better outcomes. Below are the essential diagnostic tests that help our team at Livasa Hospital evaluate your heart’s health.
1. Echocardiography (Echo)
This is often our first line of imaging. It uses sound waves to create live images of your heart, allowing us to:
- Evaluate how well your heart muscle is pumping blood.
- Check the health and function of your heart valves, such as the Aortic or Mitral valves.
- Detect conditions like Mitral Stenosis (narrowing) or Regurgitation (leakage).
2. Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
A quick and painless test that records the electrical signals in your heart. It is vital for detecting:
- Irregular Heart Rhythms (Arrhythmias).
- Evidence of a previous or silent heart attack.
- Signs of restricted blood flow in the coronary arteries.
3. CT Aortography and Cardiac CT Scan
For patients requiring advanced surgery, a CT scan provides high-resolution 3D images of the heart and its major vessels. This is essential for:
- Measuring the dimensions of the Aorta.
- Identifying Aneurysms or severe blockages in the coronary arteries.
- Planning for Robotic Cardiac Surgery or MICS.
4. Cardiac Catheterization (Angiography)
To get a definitive look at your coronary arteries, we may perform a cardiac catheterization. By injecting a special dye, we can visualize blockages that may require:
- MIDCAB (Minimally Invasive Direct Coronary Artery Bypass).
- Total Arterial Bypass Surgery.
5. Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE)
When standard imaging isn’t enough, a TEE provides more detailed information. By passing a probe down the esophagus, we get a closer look at the heart’s anatomy, which is crucial for:
- Detailed valve morphology assessment before repair.
- Checking for clots or structural defects like Atrial Septal Defects (ASD).
When Should You Get Tested?
Symptoms like chest pain (angina), shortness of breath, or dizziness with activity should never be ignored. Early evaluation ensures that if intervention is needed, we can utilize Minimally Invasive techniques that allow you to return to your routine life in just 7-10 days.
“Your heart deserves the best technology and the most careful evaluation.” — Dr. Ishant Singla
