What is Dobutamine Stress Echo?
Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography (DSE) is a test that evaluates heart function under pharmacological stress using the drug dobutamine, instead of exercise.
It mimics the effect of exercise by increasing heart rate and workload.
This test is ideal for patients who cannot walk on a treadmill due to orthopedic, neurological, or medical limitations.
Why is DSE Done?
Recommended for evaluating:
- Chest pain or suspected coronary artery disease
- Reduced blood flow to the heart not visible on rest ECHO
- Heart function in patients unable to exercise
- Viability of heart muscle before procedures
- Follow-up after coronary interventions
It can identify:
- Stress-induced ischemia
- Wall motion abnormalities
- Viable vs. non-viable myocardium
- Risk of future cardiac events
Before the Test
- Do not eat for 3–4 hours prior (unless medically advised otherwise).
- Avoid caffeine on the day of the test.
- Some medications (especially beta-blockers) may need adjustment—follow your doctor’s instructions.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
What to Expect During the Test
- Baseline Echo
- Initial heart images are obtained.
- Dobutamine Infusion
- Dobutamine is given intravenously to increase heart rate gradually.
- Your ECG, BP, and symptoms are closely monitored.
- Stress Echo Imaging
- At peak effect, echo images are captured to detect areas of poor blood flow.
- Recovery
- The medication effect wears off within minutes.
- The entire procedure takes 30–45 minutes.
After the Test
- You may feel mild palpitations or warmth temporarily—these settle quickly.
- A senior cardiologist interprets your study and prepares a detailed report.
Why Choose Us for Stress Echo?
- Cardiologist-Supervised Test
- A senior cardiologist is present throughout the procedure, ensuring safety and accuracy.
- Advanced Monitoring & Equipment
- Continuous ECG, BP, and real-time imaging for highest diagnostic accuracy.
- Detailed Specialist Interpretation
- Our cardiologist provides clear results and guidance for next steps.
- Dobutamine Infusion (Using a Sterile Infusion Set)
- Dobutamine is administered through a sterile infusion set, ensuring:
- Smooth and controlled drug delivery
- Maximum patient comfort
- Precise dose adjustment at each stage
- High safety standards during the stress phase
- Dobutamine is administered through a sterile infusion set, ensuring: