Ambulatory recordings

​Ambulatory ECG recording

An ambulatory ECG recording, i.e. Holter monitoring, is used to examine cardiac rate during different kinds of functions, as well as arrhythmias and extra beats. To perform the examination, electrodes are attached onto the patient's chest. The patient is given a pouch with a small recording monitor, which records the results of the test. The ambulatory monitoring lasts from 24 to 48 hours.

Ambulatory cardiac event monitoring

Infrequent cardiac symptoms can be examined with a portable device resembling a mobile phone. When a symptom appears, the patient activates a brief ECG recording from the fingertips. The device sends the results of the recording to the physician, who can examine them immediately. The patient keeps a journal of his/her tasks and sensations. The examination lasts for 2 to 4 weeks, after which the device is to be returned to the hospital.

The examination may also be done by attaching electrodes onto the patient's chest. The patient receives a pouch with a small recording device, which records the results of the test. The device has a symptom button, which the patient should press whenever the symptoms appear. The examination usually takes less than a week.

Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring

In the examination, blood pressure variation is monitored with an arm cuff for 24 hours. The patient can follow his/her daily routine during the examination.

Ambulatory oesophageal pH monitoring

The monitoring is used to investigate excessive exposure of oesophagus to gastric acid. A very thin, flexible catheter is inserted into the oesophagus through the nostril. The examination lasts for 24 hours, during which the patient can follow his/her daily routine.