Dobutamine Stress Echo (DSE)
Your doctor has asked that you have a dobutamine stress echo (DSE).
Purpose of the test.
- To see if you have coronary artery disease
- To check heart valve function during stress
- To check the ability of your heart to contract more vigorously with stress
Description of the test.
The test is done in the Cardiology Lab. You will be asked to put on a patient gown. You will be asked to lie on an examining table. Electrodes (adhesive patches) will be applied to your chest to monitor your heart rate and rhythm during the test. Before attaching the electrodes, the skin will be cleaned and, if necessary, the hair shaved or clipped. When first applied, the electrodes feel cold. You will be asked to relax and lay perfectly still during the test.
An intravenous (IV) line will be started for infusion of medication.
Echo images will be taken while you are at rest. Clear jelly will be applied to certain areas of your chest and a small transducer (a wand-like apparatus) is placed directly over the jelly. You might feel some pressure as the technician makes good contact with the skin. You may be asked to change your position so that different parts of your heart can be checked. You must remain still during the test.
The Dobutamine medication in your IV will be started. The medication will cause your heart to react as if you were exercising. Your heart rate will rise and you may feel it beating more strongly. You may feel a warm, flushing feeling and in some cases, a mild headache or tingling sensation. The rise in heart rate increases the oxygen demand of the heart and helps us to determine if the heart muscle is getting enough blood and oxygen during exercise.
At regular intervals, the lab staff will ask how you are feeling, and will check your ECG, blood pressure and heart rate. Please tell them if you feel chest, arm, or jaw pain or discomfort; shortness of breath, dizziness; lightheadedness; or irregular heartbeats immediately. This procedure is usually well tolerated, but occasionally there are complications. Please discuss the risks with your cardiologist.
The lab staff and doctor will watch for any symptoms, irregular heart rhythms, an inappropriate heart rate or blood pressure responses that suggest the test should be stopped.
A second set of images will be done as soon as your heart rate reaches its peak rate, usually about 10 minutes after the Dobutamine has been started.
How long will the test take?
The test takes about one hour. Allow 2 hours for parking in case of delay.
What preparation is required?
- DO NOT eat or drink anything except water for four hours before the test.
- Ask your doctor what medications should be taken on the day of your test. Do not stop any medication without first talking with your doctor.
- If you have diabetes and take medications to manage your blood sugar, ask your doctor how to adjust your medications the day of your test. Do not take your diabetes medication and skip a meal before the test. If you own a glucose monitor, bring it with you to check your blood sugar levels before and after your test. If you think your blood sugar is low, tell the lab staff immediately. Plan to eat and take your blood sugar medication after your test.
- You can wear whatever you like. You will need to change into a hospital gown to wear during the procedure. Do not bring valuables.
After the test.
You may develop a slight rash where the electrodes were placed. Your chest will be wiped to remove the clear jelly. You should also plan to stay in the waiting room for at least 15 minutes after completing the test or until all of the symptoms you have experienced have gone away. You can resume your regular activities.
Where do I go for the test?
Cardiology Lab, Room 2450 2nd Floor, Providence II Building
Phone Number: 604-806-8032