Patient information

Learn more about the investigations and treatments offered by our cardiology service.

Our cardiology service uses cutting-edge clinical innovations to treat and prevent heart conditions and offers a full range of investigations, treatments and management for cardiac conditions. 

Patient information leaflets

• Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring - Hammersmith Hospital
• Ambulatory holter monitor - Charing Cross Hospital, Hammersmith Hospital and St. Mary's Hospital
• Atrial fibrillation virtual ward
• Exercise test - Charing Cross Hospital
• Having a device box change
• Having a diagnostic coronary angiogram
• Having a lead revision/extraction
• Having a pacemaker implantation
• Having a percutaneous coronary intervention
• Having a ventricular tachycardia ablation
• Having an atrial fibrillation/tachycardia ablation
• Having an atrial flutter ablation
• Having an electrophysiology study and ablation
• Having an implantable cardioverter defibrillator
• Having an implantable loop recorder (ILR) implant
• Having an implantable loop recorder (ILR) removal
• Pulmonary exercise test (MV02 test) - St Mary's Hospital
• Seven day heart monitor - Charing Cross Hospital

Echocardiogram information for patients, relatives and carers

This is what to expect when you come to hospital for an echocardiogram. We hope it will answer some of the questions that you or those who care for you may have. It's not meant to replace the discussion between you and your medical team but aims to help you understand more about what is discussed.

Why is the scan performed?

The scan provides your doctor with specific information about the structure of your heart. It will also provide the doctor with information about the flow of blood to your heart which cannot be detected with an ordinary ECG.

What happens during the scan?

When you enter the examination room, you will be asked to undress to the waist and lie on your left side and a small amount of gel will be applied to your chest. A probe will then be manoeuvred to allow the technician to see your heart. As this is a teaching hospital there may be some training of medical staff during the test if you agree to it.

Please help us to keep delays to a minimum by arriving on time for your appointment.

If you cannot keep your appointment, please contact us to cancel or reschedule on 0203 312 1241.

British Heart Foundation shows what to expect from some common investigations.

Echocardiogram

Exercise ECG (stress test)

Cardiac MRI

Electrocardiogram (ECG)