| Ambulatory
ECG - Method in which prolonged electrocardiographic
recordings are made on a portable tape recorder or solid-state
device while the patient undergoes normal daily activities.
It is useful in the diagnosis and management of intermittent
cardiac arrhythmias and transient myocardial ischemia.
ECG
- Electrocardiogram, also referred to as an EKG. A graphic
record of the electric currents generated by the heart.
Balloon
Angioplasty - Method for dilating narrowed or
blocked part of an artery with a catheter.
Board
Certification - Certification by a member board
of the American Board of Medical Specialists indicating
that a physician has satisfied the necessary training
requirements and successfully completed an examination
which determines whether candidates have received adequate
preparation in accordance with established educational
standards.
Cholesterol
- A type of lipid (fat) used by the body to build cells
and certain hormones; also one of the fats found in
foods derived from animal sources.
Coronary
artery bypass - an operation that re-routes
the blood supply by bypassing blocked coronary arteries.
Cyanosis
- bluish coloring of skin, nails, lips, or tongue due
to lack of oxygen-containing blood.
Echocardiogram
- A soundwave picture showing the structure and function
of the heart.
Exercise
test - A study to measure the heart’s performance
and limitations taken while the patient is exercising
Heart
attack - An area of heart tissue dies because
its blood supply is blocked.
Heart
catheterization - A test in which a small tube
is placed in or near the heart to take pictures, look
at how the heart is working, check the electrical system,
or help relieve blockages.
Heart
failure - A condition caused when the heart
is unable to pump enough blood to meet the needs of
the body.
Heart
rhythm disturbances - abnormal heart beat
Nuclear
imaging - Tests to measure heart muscle blood
flow and the heart’s pumping function at rest or with
exercise.
Pacemaker
- Device that delivers electrical stimulus to the heart,
which causes it to contract
Copyright
© 1999 American College of Cardiology
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