Dr Anthony McClelland
Cardiology Clinic
Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading health concerns in the UK and Ireland – but the good news is, there are steps you can take. Focusing on prevention can empower you to take control of your heart health.
Cardiology Investigations
At Kingsbridge Private Hospital we offer a comprehensive range of cardiac screening services including:
ECG (Electrocardiogram)
An ECG involves attaching monitoring electrodes or pads to your chest to produce a record of the electrical activity of your heart. This provides information about the rate, rhythm, and electrical conduction of the heart. It also provides some information about the health and contractility of the heart muscle.
An ECG will provide benefits including:
- General health assessment
- As part of a cardiac assessment
- Pre-employment health check
- Medical insurance
ECG’s can be arranged for medical insurance, pre-employment checks or for peace of mind.
Echocardiography
An Echocardiography is an ultrasound examination providing accurate images of the heart muscle, chambers and the heart valves to aid the diagnosis of heart disease.
It can provide a wealth of clinical information, including the size and structure of the valves, chambers of the heart, pumping capacity and allows visualisation of any abnormalities. By assessing the motion of the heart wall an echocardiography examination can help assess previous damage due to coronary artery disease.
The biggest advantage of echocardiography is that it uses non-invasive ultrasound and has no known side effects. It can also be used pre and post-surgery and alongside specific chemotherapy treatments.
Structures visualised with echocardiography include:
- Ascending and descending aorta
- Valves and their function
- Chambers of the heart
- Wall thickness and motion
- Pericardium
- Intra-cardiac masses
What is involved during an echocardiogram exam?
Three electrodes (small, flat, sticky patches) and an ultrasound transducer/probe will be placed on and moved over your chest. You should feel no discomfort during the examination.
The examination will take approximately 30-40 minutes
Treadmill & Exercise Stress Testing
Treadmill or Exercise Stress Testing is a diagnostic tool used to assess the presence of coronary artery disease or ECG and blood pressure response to exercise.
The results can demonstrate if blood supply is reduced in the arteries that supply your heart.
It involves walking on a treadmill at increasing levels of difficulty. During the test the heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, electrocardiogram (ECG) tracing, and how tired you feel are monitored throughout and after the examination.
An exercise stress test may be requested to:
- Diagnose coronary artery disease
- Diagnose a possible heart-related cause of symptoms such as chest pain, shortness of breath or light-headedness
- Determine a safe level of exercise
- Check the heart’s overall function as part of an anaesthetic assessment for surgery
- Depending on the results of the exercise stress test, your cardiologist may recommend more tests such as a nuclear stress test, cardiac catheterization or CT cardiac angiography
How is the test performed?
You will be asked to wear comfortable clothes, walking shoes or trainers and you will have small electrodes placed on your chest to monitor the heart.
You will be required to walk slowly whilst the speed is increased and the treadmill is tilted to produce the effect of going up a small hill. You may also be asked to breathe into a tube for a few minutes. The test can be stopped at any time if you feel tired, in pain or distressed.
The complete examination will take approximately 40 minutes. Medical professionals will be present throughout the test. We provide on-site showering facilities, should you require them after the exam.
Meet Our Consultants
Our consultants are specialists with years of experience. From your first consultation through to your recovery, you’ll be under the care of experts who are dedicated to helping you achieve the best possible results.
Our Locations
Each site is equipped with modern facilities and experienced teams who will look after you throughout your treatment and recovery.
Our hospitals are easy to reach and offer a calm, comfortable environment to support your care. Wherever you decide to go, you’ll receive the same high standard of personalised treatment.
Costs
Costs can vary depending on the procedure and your personal treatment plan. We’ll give you a clear price guide upfront and explain what’s included.
Flexible payment options are available to help spread the cost. Our team is here to answer questions and help you choose the best way to pay.
Steps to get started
Our team will support you through every stage, from your first enquiry to your recovery.
Using Health Insurance
If you have private health insurance, check with your provider to see what’s covered. We’re happy to help with any paperwork and can work directly with many insurance companies to make the process smoother for you.
Paying for Treatment Yourself
If you’re paying for treatment yourself, we’ll give you clear information about costs and help you plan your care. You’ll know exactly what to expect, with no hidden fees.
Book an Appointment
You can book an appointment online, call our friendly team, or ask your GP for a referral.
We’re here to answer your questions, talk you through your options, and help you feel confident about your treatment.