OUR SERVICES
At South West Cardiology, we take pride in providing comprehensive cardiology services to our patients.
We understand that a thorough assessment and management of cardiac symptoms are essential which is why we offer a full suite of consultation, diagnostic investigations and procedures to our patients.
CARDIOLOGY CONSULTATION
We provide a comprehensive assessment and management of cardiac symptoms. Our cardiologists have a range of special interests in general cardiology, heart failure, imaging, coronary intervention, electrophysiology and cardiac devices.
Cardiology Consultation is available At Each Of Our Locations in Liverpool, Campbelltown and Camden.
Our Team Is Committed To Providing High-Quality Care And Personalized Attention To Each Of Our Patients. Book An Appointment With Us Today To Take The First Step In Managing Your Cardiac Health.
DIAGNOSTIC TESTS
South West Cardiology offer state of the art cardiac testing both on site and through our imaging partners. These tests are performed and reported by our specialist Cardiologists and assisted by our skilled technicians, sonographers and nurses. We offer a range of diagnostic tests including:
Having an ECG (electrocardiogram) at our cardiology office is a quick and easy process. An ECG is a non-invasive test that records the electrical activity of your heart. It is used to diagnose heart conditions such as arrhythmias, heart attack and many other heart diseases. The test is performed by attaching electrodes to your chest, arms, and legs. The test typically takes around 3-5 minutes. Our cardiologists will review the results of the ECG during the consultation and provide you with a detailed report of the findings. If your GP requests an ECG without a consultation, we can send the ECG with a report as soon as it is performed. If you have any questions or concerns about your ECG, please feel free to ask our team of experts.
Having a Holter monitor at our cardiology office is a convenient way to monitor your heart’s activity over a period of time. A Holter monitor is a portable device that records your heart’s electrical activity for a period of 24 to 48 hours. The device is small and can be worn around your neck or waist, allowing you to go about your normal activities while the test is being conducted. The monitor is attached to your chest with electrodes, and the data is recorded on a small device that you will carry with you.
A MyPatch monitor can be worn for 7 to 14 days, depending on what you cardiologist prefers. It is a stick on patch that can be worn easily under your normal clothing and even in the shower!
The Holter monitor and MyPatch tests allow the doctors to diagnose arrhythmias and other heart conditions that may not show up during a regular ECG. Our cardiologists will review the data collected by the monitor and provide you with a detailed report of the findings.
Before the test, you will be given detailed instructions on how to use the monitor and what to expect during the monitoring period. It is important that you follow the instructions carefully and return the monitor to our office at the end of the testing period. Our team of experts will be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the test.
An echocardiogram is a non-invasive test that is commonly used to evaluate the structure and function of the heart. During the test, a technician (also known as a sonographer) will place a small device called a transducer on your chest. This sends high-frequency sound waves through the chest wall and into the heart. These sound waves create a detailed image, which the technician and cardiologist can use to evaluate the heart’s structure and function. It is very useful in identifying the strength of your heart’s contractions, heart muscle damage and valve related problems. The test is usually painless and does not require any preparation. It will be helpful if you wear simple clothing that is easy to remove to allow the technician to place the probe over your left chest. The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes to complete. Our team of experts will be available to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the test.
A stress test is performed using ECG cables that are attached to your chest whilst you exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike.
A stress echocardiogram is a specialised type of echocardiogram that is used to evaluate the blood flow to the heart during physical activity. The test begins with a standard echocardiogram. This is used to create a baseline image of the heart. You will then exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike following which, the echocardiogram is repeated. Both the ECG recordings and echocardiogram images allow the cardiologist to see how the heart responds to physical activity and if there are any areas of the heart that are struggling to contract. This will help determine if there are any major blockages in the coronary arteries preventing blood flow to the heart muscle.
The test is non-invasive and usually takes about 30 minutes to complete. Please remember to wear comfortable shoes that you are able to walk and run in. Our team of experts will tailor the exercise to suit your specific needs, and will be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the test.
A stress test is performed using ECG cables that are attached to your chest whilst you exercise on a treadmill or stationary bike.
The ECG recordings allow the cardiologist to see how the heart responds to physical activity, giving an idea if there are any abnormalities to blood flow from major coronary artery blockages, and also assess any rhythm disturbances that may be precipitated by exercise.
The test is non-invasive and usually takes about 30 minutes to complete. Please remember to wear comfortable shoes that you are able to walk and run in. Our team of experts will tailor the exercise to suit your specific needs, and will be able to answer any questions or concerns you may have throughout the test.
An ambulatory blood pressure monitor (ABPM) is a non-invasive test that is used to measure blood pressure over a period of time. You will be provided with a small portable device that is worn around the upper arm. The device automatically measures blood pressure at regular intervals throughout the day and night, usually for 24 hours. You will be instructed to keep a diary of your activities, including meals, exercise, and sleep to correlate with the blood pressure readings. The data is then downloaded and analyzed by the cardiologist to evaluate your blood pressure patterns. It is a valuable diagnostic tool for identifying hypertension, which is a major risk factor for heart disease. It is also used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment and monitor any changes in blood pressure over time.
Our ‘device clinic’ is a comprehensive service for managing patients with pacemakers, defibrillators and loop recorders (also known as ILRs). All major brands are catered for (Boston Scientific, Biotronik, Abbot (St Jude), Medtronic and Micropace). Our experienced physicians and technical experts from the companies specialize in the management of patients with these devices, including remote monitoring.
Click here to find out more about our Device Clinic
PROCEDURES WE OFFER
In addition to diagnostic tests, South West Cardiology offers a range of procedures through our various Cardiologists. These can be arranged to be performed in both the public and private hospital system. These include:
An angiogram can be performed on its own, or with stenting of a blocked blood vessel – this is known as percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). The procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting (private and public hospitals, depending on if you are having it under your private health insurance, or Medicare). and is organized by our cardiology office. The procedure involves using a thin, flexible tube called a catheter, which is guided through a small incision into a blood vessel at the top of the leg (femoral artery), or in the arm (radial artery). The catheter is guide by the cardiologist (also known as an interventionalist) into the heart’s coronary arteries. A contrast dye (iodine based) is then injected into the artery to create an image of the artery and identify any partial or complete blockages.
If a blockage is severe enough, the cardiologist may perform a stenting procedure (PCI), which involves inserting a small metal mesh tube called a stent into the blocked artery to keep it open. This helps to improve blood flow to the heart and treat angina. In some hospitals, the procedure is used to treat patients presenting with heart attacks, and can be potentially save their life.
The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, and sometimes with conscious sedation, meaning you will be awake but relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. The procedure typically takes about 45 minutes to complete, but up to 2 hours if stenting is required. Recovery time varies depending on the individual case, but some people can go home on the same day, and some people require hospitalisation for at least 1 night.
Angiograms and stenting and a valuable treatment option for patients with coronary artery disease and in preparation for other procedures. However, it is important to note that not all patients are suitable for this sort of procedure, and not all patients require it. Your cardiologist will help decide if this is an appropriate procedure for you. You will be instructed not to eat or drink for a certain period of time before the procedure. Please inform the cardiologist of any allergies, especially to iodine, sensitivities to medications or if you are on blood thinners. You should be able to return to normal activities within a 3-4 days. Your doctor will advise you on any restrictions.
A direct-current cardioversion (DCCV) is a procedure that is used to reset the rhythm of the heart in patients with certain types of arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation and atrial flutter and can help to improve the symptoms and quality of life. It is typically performed in a hospital setting (private and public hospitals, depending on if you are having it under your private health insurance, or Medicare).
It can easily be organised by our helpful staff after your cardiologist has discussed it with you. The procedure involves delivering a small electrical shock to the heart through paddles or patches placed on the chest. The electrical shock is used to reset the heart’s rhythm, allowing it to return to a normal.
The procedure is usually performed under conscious sedation, which means you are breathing for yourself, but relaxed and comfortable enough to allow the shock to be delivered without much pain.
The procedure typically takes about 20-30 minutes to complete, and you can usually go home the same day. You will be instructed not to eat or drink for a certain period of time before the procedure. Please inform the cardiologist of any allergies or sensitivities to medications. It is important to note that the procedure is not suitable for everyone and requires a detailed discussion with your cardiologist to determine if it is appropriate for you.
A transesophageal echocardiogram (TOE) is a specialised type of echocardiogram that is used to evaluate the heart. It is a valuable tool for identifying certain types of conditions, such as valve problems, blood clots, and infections in the heart. It is typically performed in a hospital setting (private and public hospitals, depending on if you are having it under your private health insurance, or Medicare). and is organized by a cardiology office.
The procedure involves passing a small, flexible probe with an ultrasound transducer on the end, through the your mouth, down the oesophagus, and into the chest. This allows the cardiologist to get a clear view of the heart and its valves without the interference of the patient’s rib cage or lungs. The procedure is usually performed under sedation or general anaesthesia, which means you are either relaxed or asleep during the time of the test. It is also performed in some patients undergoing DCCV (cardioversion), ablation of arrhythmias and other procedures such as TAVI (see the other sections for explanations on these procedures).
The procedure typically takes about 30-45 minutes to complete. You will be instructed not to eat or drink for a certain period of time before the procedure. Please inform the cardiologist of any allergies or sensitivities to medications.
An electrophysiology study (EPS) plus or minus ablation is a procedure that is used to evaluate and treat certain types of heart rhythm disorders, known as arrhythmias. The procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting (private and public hospitals, depending on if you are having it under your private health insurance, or Medicare).
During an EPS, thin, flexible wires called catheters are inserted through a vein in the groin and guided to the heart. These catheters are used to record the electrical activity of the heart and identify the source of any abnormal rhythms. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia with conscious sedation, meaning you will be awake but relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. Some patients require a general anaesthetic so they are completely asleep for the procedure. Sometimes a TOE (trans-oesophageal echocardiogram) is performed at the same time as the procedure. This will depend on your cardiologist’s evaluation and discussion with you.
If an abnormal rhythm is identified during the EPS, the cardiologist may perform an ablation procedure. This involves using energy, such as radiofrequency or cryotherapy, to destroy small areas of heart tissue that are causing the abnormal rhythm. The goal of the ablation procedure is to interrupt the electrical pathways that are causing the arrhythmia, thereby correcting the rhythm and improving symptoms.
The procedure typically takes about 2 to 4 hours to complete but sometimes can take longer. The recovery time varies depending on the individual case. Some people can go home on the same day, and some require an overnight stay in hospital. Please inform the cardiologist of any allergies, especially to iodine, sensitivities to medications or if you are on blood thinners. You should be able to return to normal activities within a 3-4 days. Your doctor will advise you on any restrictions.
EPS is a valuable diagnostic and treatment option for patients with certain types of arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation, and it can help to improve symptoms and reduce the risk of future heart problems. However, it’s important to note that before the procedure, the patient will have to go through a series of tests to evaluate
Pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) is a procedure that is used to treat a type of abnormal heart rhythm called atrial fibrillation (AF). The procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting (private and public hospitals, depending on if you are having it under your private health insurance, or Medicare), and is organised by a cardiology office. PVI is a useful tool in the management of AF, but is not suitable for all patients. Consultation with your cardiologist or electrophysiologist is required to determine if PVI is appropriate for your condition.
During PVI, thin, flexible wires called catheters are inserted through a vein in the groin and guided to the heart. These catheters are used to create a series of small burns around the pulmonary veins, which are the blood vessels that bring oxygenated blood from the lungs to the heart. The goal of the procedure is to electrically isolate these veins from the rest of the heart (they will still be able to do their job of bringing oxygenated blood to the heart), which helps to interrupt the electrical pathways that are causing AF.
The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthesia, meaning you will be asleep during the procedure. However, sometimes, conscious sedation is preferred where you will be awake but relaxed and comfortable during the procedure . The procedure typically takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete. Overnight stay in hospital is generally required. You should be able to return to normal activities within a 3-4 days. Your doctor will advise you on any restrictions. You will be instructed not to eat or drink for a certain period of time before the procedure. Please inform the cardiologist of any allergies, especially to iodine, sensitivities to medications or if you are on blood thinners.
Implantation of a loop recorder (ILR) is a procedure that is used to diagnose and manage certain types of heart rhythm disorders, such as arrhythmias and blackouts (also known as syncope – pronounced “sin-co-pee”). The procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting (private and public hospitals, depending on if you are having it under your private health insurance, or Medicare), and is organized by a cardiology office.
During the procedure, a small device called a loop recorder is implanted just under the skin of the chest, overlying the heart, through a 1cm cut. The device continuously records the electrical activity of the heart for up to 2-3 years. The device is activated by the patient when they experience symptoms such as palpitations or fainting, and it captures the electrical activity of the heart at the time of the symptoms. The recordings are then transmitted to the cardiologist for analysis, sometimes via your phone (Bluetooth) or via a bedside monitor.
The procedure is usually done performed local anaesthesia with or without light conscious sedation, meaning you will be awake but relaxed and comfortable during the procedure. The procedure typically takes about 10-20 minutes to complete. You can go home on the same day with a dressing over the device. There are sometimes stiches used and you will be advised how to manage this by your cardiologist. You will generally be followed up in our device clinic following the procedure.
Implantation of a pacemaker or defibrillator is a procedure that is used to treat certain types of heart rhythm disorders, such as bradycardia (a slow heart rate), dangerous tachycardias (a fast heart rate) and heart failure. The procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting (private and public hospitals, depending on if you are having it under your private health insurance, or Medicare), and is organised by our cardiology office.
During the procedure, a small device called a pacemaker or defibrillator is surgically implanted just under the skin of the chest. The pacemaker sends electrical impulses to the heart to help it beat at a normal rate, while the defibrillator is able to detect abnormal heart rhythms and deliver electrical shocks to the heart to restore a normal rhythm. Some devices have extra leads that help the heart contract in a more synchronised manner, helping it get stronger. Of course, each device is tailored specifically to your needs as advised by your cardiologist.
The procedure is usually done performed with local anaesthetic and conscious sedation (sedated, breathing for yourself but comfortable) of general anaesthesia (completely asleep). The procedure typically takes about 1 to 2 hours to complete. Recovery time varies depending on the individual case. Some people are able to go home on the same day, but some require a night in hospital. However, most people are able to return to normal activities within a few days. Please inform the cardiologist of any allergies, especially to iodine, sensitivities to medications or if you are on blood thinners. There are generally some restrictions in movement of your arm following the procedure. You will be advised by your doctor with regards to any restrictions required.
Atrial septal defect (ASD( is a hole in the wall that separates the upper chambers of the heart, while a patent foramen ovale (PFO), is a small hole in the wall between the right and left atria that is present in about 25% of people. Both conditions can lead to issues such as stroke or heart failure if left untreated. Not everybody with a hole in the heart requires a procedure, therefore, consultation with your cardiologist is require to determine if this is an appropriate procedure for you. The procedure is typically performed in a hospital setting (private and public hospitals, depending on if you are having it under your private health insurance, or Medicare), and is organised by a cardiology office.
The procedure to close an ASD or PFO is usually performed using a catheter-based approach, which involves threading a thin tube through a vein in the leg and up to the heart. A small device, such as a plug, is used to close the hole. The procedure is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about an 1-2 hours to complete.
An overnight stay in hospital is generally required. Recovery after the procedure is generally quick, with most patients able to return to normal activities within a 3-4. Please inform the cardiologist of any allergies, especially to iodine, sensitivities to medications or if you are on blood thinners. You will be advised by your doctor with regards to any restrictions that are required following the procedure.
TAVI, or transcatheter aortic valve implantation, in a hospital organised by a cardiology office can be a minimally invasive option for patients with severe aortic stenosis who are at high risk for traditional open-heart surgery. TAVI is a procedure that involves replacing the damaged aortic valve with a new valve through a catheter, which is inserted through a small incision, generally in the leg.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and is typically performed via the top of the leg through the femoral artery. The new valve is moved ot the heart under guidance from a TOE (trans-oesophageal echocardiogram) then expanded and positioned inside the old, damaged valve, and the catheter is removed.
Recovery after TAVI is usually quicker than traditional open-heart surgery and patients are usually able to return home within a few days. The procedure is associated with less pain and blood loss compared to traditional open-heart surgery. Regular follow-up appointments with the cardiology office will be required to ensure that the new valve is functioning properly and that there are no complications.
Overall, having a TAVI can be an effective option for individuals with severe aortic stenosis who are at high risk for traditional open-heart surgery. It is important to follow the instructions and recommendations of your cardiologist with regards to suitability of this procedure to treat your aortic stenosis. It is not appropriate for all patients, and discussion with your cardiologist is required.
