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Complications in stress echocardiography
Isabel João1, Carlos Cotrim, Luís do Rosário
1Serviço de Cardiologia, Hospital Garcia de Orta, Almada.
Summary
Stress echocardiography (SE) is a safe, non-invasive method for detecting myocardial ischemia. While rare, serious complications can occur, requiring immediate resuscitation preparedness.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Diagnostic Imaging
Background:
- Coronary artery disease is prevalent in Western countries.
- Non-invasive methods for detecting myocardial ischemia are crucial.
- Stress echocardiography (SE) has emerged as a key diagnostic tool.
Observation:
- A total of 2326 SE studies were performed between January 1999 and December 2001.
- Various stress modalities were employed, including exercise, dobutamine, dipyridamole, permanent pacing, and hyperventilation.
- Eight significant complications (0.3%) occurred during the study period.
Findings:
- Exercise SE had three complications: cardiac rupture, sustained ventricular tachycardia, and AV block.
- Dobutamine SE had five complications: non-sustained VT, sustained VT, and AV block.
- The overall complication rate highlights the importance of preparedness.
Implications:
- Stress echocardiography is a feasible and safe diagnostic procedure.
- Healthcare professionals must be prepared for immediate cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
- Continuous monitoring and prompt management are essential for patient safety during SE.