Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram
What is a Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram
Dobutamine affects the heart in a similar manner to exercise. It increases the heart rate and blood pressure and makes the heart beat stronger. The rise in heart rate increases the oxygen demand of the heart and helps to determine if the heart muscle is getting enough blood and oxygen.
What preparation is needed?
How is it done?
An intravenous line (small needle) will be placed in your hand so that the Dobutamine can be administered. Uncommonly, other medications may be required in order to increase or decrease the heart rate.
The dose of Dobutamine starts very low and will gradually be increased until your heart rate has reached a minimum of 85% of its maximal level, or sooner if the test is positive.
During the test you will be lying on your left side and images of your heart will be taken before, during and after the Dobutamine infusion.
How long will it take?
Beta Blocker medications patients need to stop for this test
What are the risks?
- Abnormal heart rhythm (3 in 1000 people). We are equipped to deal with these situations
- Chest pain (3 in 1000 people). This can be treated with drugs
- Heart attack (4 in 10,000 people).
- Reaction to Dobutamine.
- Drip site infection.
- Mild headache due to the Dobutamine is possible but usually resolves quickly.
- Death is rare (1 in 10,000 people).
These risks will be explained to you again by a doctor or scientist when you attend the appointment and you will have ample opportunity to discuss any queries or concerns.
If you have any further questions, please contact us at:
Queensland Cardiology
St Vincent’s Private Hospital Northside
North Medical Suites, Green Lifts Level 3,
627 Rode Road
Chermside Q 4032
(07) 3861 5522
