Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): An ECG is a common diagnostic tool used to measure the electrical activity of the heart. Electrodes are placed on the skin, and the electrical signals produced by the heart are recorded, helping to diagnose various heart conditions such as arrhythmias, heart attacks, and heart rhythm disorders.
Holter Monitor: A Holter monitor is a portable ECG device worn by a patient for an extended period, typically 24 to 48 hours, to monitor and record the heart’s electrical activity continuously. It is used to diagnose intermittent heart rhythm abnormalities and assess the effectiveness of cardiac medications or treatments.
Event Monitor: An event monitor is a portable device similar to a Holter monitor but is typically worn for a more extended period (up to a month). It is used to record and store ECG data when the patient experiences specific symptoms, helping to capture rare or infrequent cardiac events.
Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram is a non-invasive ultrasound test that uses sound waves to create detailed images of the heart’s structure and function. It helps diagnose heart valve problems, assess heart chamber size and function, and detect other structural heart abnormalities.
Apart from Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting (CABG), advancements in medical technology and surgical techniques have led to the development of Minimally Invasive Cardiac Surgeries (MICS). MICS is a category of heart surgeries that involve smaller incisions and specialized instruments, resulting in reduced trauma, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times compared to traditional open-heart surgeries.