Overview of services offered in Cardiology
Treatment is provided for the following conditions
- Diseases of the coronary vessels, the cardiac muscle and the cardiac valves
- Pacemaker implantation
- Heart failure (acute and chronic cardiac insufficiency)
- Cardiac arrhythmia
- Vascular diseases of the cardiac and peripheral arteries and veins (in cooperation with the Vascular Surgery Department)
- Stroke treatment under supervision by neurological specialists
Information on functional examinations in Cardiology
Performing an electrocardiogram under various conditions provides insight into changes in the electrical conduction system of the heart. Changes, especially in coronary circulation, are also visible at an early point, enabling initiatiation of further treatment steps.
Recording an ECG over an extended period of time, usually 24 hours, delivers valuable information about changes in heart rhythm and influences decisions on further treatment. Important indications include the investigation of heart disease and stroke as well as temporary loss of consciousness (referred to as syncope). An ambulatory ECG is frequently used to verify the effectiveness of medication. It also serves to determine the indication for pacemaker implantation.
Besides the investigation of abnormal blood flow in the heart, a stress ECG delivers valuable information about circulatory regulation during exercise as well as general physical fitness. It is therefore a major part of the daily routine in the diagnosis of heart disease. Further cardiac examinations (e.g. cardiac catheterization) are often based on the results of a stress ECG.
Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring
Monitoring blood pressure throughout the day as well as under the influence of medication is an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. The patient is given a small device that measures the blood pressure at fixed intervals around the clock.
Sonographic techniques allow for visualising internal organs in a way that is easy on the patient and avoids exposure to X-rays. Ultrasound examination of the abdominal organs is an essential part of internal diagnostic procedures. The additional use of what is referred to as color Doppler sonography measures blood flow to provide further information about circulation, especially in large and medium-sized vessels. This ultrasound device can also be used to take local tissue samples from organs under visual guidance. Besides abdominal organs, the chest cavity, the thyroid gland and various vascular regions can also be examined. In the hands of an experienced examiner, sonography produces highly sensitive results and has become a fixture in clinical routine.
Evaluating the heart’s cavities and the function of the cardiac valves gives very precise and detailed insight into the functionality of the heart and the presence of disorders without subjecting the patient to significant stress. In contrast to sonography of abdominal organs, echocardiography analyzes movement, blood flow and anatomy of the examined organs. This usually enables an excellent evaluation of the heart’s dynamic function as well as any structural changes. Echocardiography is also becoming increasingly important in emergency care and in (pre-) operative areas.
Specific medical conditions, such as diseases of the cardiac valves, necessitate that echocardiography be performed through the esophagus. Comparable to a gastroscopy, an ultrasound probe is inserted into the esophagus under either local anesthesia or sedation. The close proximity to the heart allows for superior visualization of small cardiac structures while continuously monitoring the patient’s cardiovascular parameters and condition. Although the overall procedure is slightly more stressful for the patient, this examination has become an indispensable method in many areas of clinical practice.
In patients suffering from an abnormally slow heart rate and related health problems such as dizziness or fainting, a pacemaker can be used to restore a normal heartbeat and often also improves symptoms. Modern pacemakers are capable of supporting or mimicking the heart’s natural rhythm. Depending on the type of arrhythmia, one or several electrodes are inserted into the ventricles. The procedure itself is performed under local anesthesia under sterile conditions. The patient is under close medical supervision throughout the entire procedure. The pacemaker is subsequently programd to meet the patient’s specific pacing needs.
Internal Intensive Care Medicine
Patients suffering from severe or complex conditions may need to be transferred to our Intensive Care Unit for closer medical attention and monitoring. If needed, vital body functions can be supported there until the patient’s condition has stabilized. This is particularly necessary in cases of severe cardiac arrhythmia, severe cardiac, respiratory or renal failure and poisoning. The ICU employs the full range of state-of-the-art mechanical ventilation and cardiovascular equipment as well as highly effective medications. All therapeutic services are supported by comprehensive professional care. The management of monitoring and treatment often requires direct access to bodily cavities or blood vessels by means of sparing catheterization. Other medical disciplines are involved in decision-making in cases where it is important for the patient’s recovery. To us, providing patients with comprehensive care also means communicating with their relatives.
Cardiac Catheterizsation Laboratory
The Erding Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory provides diagnostic and therapeutic services to patients suffering from a wide range of diseases of the blood supply to the heart, the cardiac muscle or the cardiac valves.