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EKG

Heart & Vascular Institute -  - Interventional Cardiovascular Specialist

Heart & Vascular Institute

Interventional Cardiovascular Specialists located in Dearborn, Detroit, Wayne, and Southfield, MI

Your cardiologist may order an electrocardiogram — EKG or ECG — to evaluate the electrical activity of your heart. Because an EKG is a simple, in-office screening that takes just a few minutes, it’s one of the most commonly performed tests offered at Heart & Vascular Institute in Wayne, Dearborn, Detroit, and Southfield, Michigan. You can book your EKG appointment through the website, or you can call the office nearest you directly to schedule an appointment.

EKG Q & A

Why do I need an EKG?

The electrocardiography system measures how long it takes electrical waves to pass through your heart and get to the other side. This can let your cardiologist know whether any parts of your heart are abnormally shaped or weak.

An EKG may be necessary if you have:

  • Arrhythmia  
  • Chest pain 
  • Palpitations 
  • Irregular heartbeat 

It’s also common for your doctor to perform an EKG if you’re getting ready for a surgical procedure. The test can let you know if you have any concerning issues that may complicate your surgery or make it unsafe to perform. 

What can I expect during an EKG?

An EKG at Heart & Vascular Institute takes just a few minutes to perform. Your technician needs access to your chest, arms, and legs, so you may need to slip into a gown if you’re wearing restrictive clothing.

The EKG begins with 12 electrodes placed at very specific points all over your body. Your technician attaches these electrodes to the electrography machine, which records electrical impulses.

In some cases, it’s necessary to shave your skin if the electrodes can’t stick or can’t gather a clear reading. Your technician can help you remove just a small amount of hair from the targeted area. 

Once your EKG is complete, your technician forwards your results to your cardiologist. You may meet with your cardiologist right away, or the team at Heart & Vascular Institute can schedule you for a follow-up visit to discuss the outcome of your EKG. 

What does an EKG show?

Your dedicated cardiologist at Heart & Vascular Institute can use the information from your EKG to help diagnose a variety of conditions, including:

  • Coronary artery disease
  • Previous heart attack  
  • Heart structure issues
  • Heart failure

You may also need an EKG to evaluate the efficacy of your pacemaker. Additionally, if your EKG from Heart & Vascular Institute is abnormal or indicates that you may be at risk of certain heart-related conditions, your cardiologist can order additional tests and screenings.

If you’re in need of an EKG, contact Heart & Vascular Institute for an evaluation today. Click on the online booking tool or call any office to speak with a team member directly.