Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography (DSE) Cardiology What is Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography? Dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) involves the use of medication to stress the heart, simulating an exercise environment. It allows the cardiologist to study the response of the heart to stress. The medication, Dobutamine, is infused through a vein in increasing rates to stimulate the heart to beat faster. Ultrasound images are then obtained to study how the heart functions under stress. What is the purpose of this test? It is used to determine if there is adequate blood supply to meet increasing oxygen demands of the heart muscle when the heart beats faster. Blood supply may be reduced due to coronary artery narrowing.
Preparation before the test 1. Avoid heavy meals 2 hours before the test. 2. Medications that slows down the heart rate (e.g. atenolol, carvedilol or bisoprolol) should be omitted 1 to 2 days prior to the test. Please check with your doctor. 3. Please reschedule the test if you feel unwell e.g. flu, fever, running nose How is the test done? A small needle will be inserted into your vein for infusion of Dobutamine. ECG electrodes will be placed on your chest and blood pressure cuff on your arm for monitoring throughout the test. An ultrasound scan will be performed before, during and after the infusion of Dobutamine. You may experience your heart beating harder and faster.
Another medication, Atropine, may be used in addition to Dobutamine if the latter is unable to stress the heart sufficiently. You will be monitored for another 30 minutes during the recovery period, after which the test will end. The test may take around an hour to complete.
As Atropine persists longer in the body than Dobutamine, the symptoms may last a few hours. You are advised not to drive or go back to work.
The image will be reviewed by a cardiologist and the final report will be ready by your next clinic appointment. Is the test safe? Major side effects are rare. Minor adverse side effects associated with Dobutamine includes palpitations, chest pain, shortness of breath, nausea, vomiting and dizziness. These effects will resolve once infusion is discontinued. Side effects associated with Atropine include palpitations, blurring of vision and dry mouth.
Yishun Health is a network of medical institutions and health facilities of the National Healthcare Group. Admiralty Medical Centre • (65) 6807 8000 • www.admiraltymedicalcentre.com.sg Khoo Teck Puat Hospital • (65) 6555 8000 • www.ktph.com.sg Yishun Community Hospital • (65) 6807 8800 • www.yishuncommunityhospital.com.sg The information is correct at the time of printing and subject to revision without further notice.
CARDIO.PE.03.0318