What is a veterinary cardiologist?
A veterinary cardiologist has gone through extensive training following graduation from veterinary school. Typically, just like a human cardiologist, training includes an internship (1 year) and residency (3 years) followed by board certification in the specialty of cardiology. The training during a cardiology residency is focused on the diagnosis and treatment of patients with cardiac disease. Board-certified cardiologists have passed rigorous testing to become Diplomates of the American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine with a sub-specialty of cardiology. Diplomates of other sub-specialties or non-diplomate veterinarians who may be performing echocardiograms and/or advising treatment plans for patients with cardiac disease have not had the benefit of this intensive training.
What is a heart murmur?
A heart murmur is an abnormal heart sound heard during a physical exam. The sound is created by unusual (turbulent) blood flow through the heart. Murmurs are graded on a scale from 1 to 6. The grade of the murmur may not reflect the severity of the heart disease present.
What tests are likely to be performed during a cardiology consultation?
First, a complete physical exam that is focused on your pet’s cardiovascular status will be performed. Second, based upon the physical exam findings, additional diagnostics may then be recommended as they are needed. An electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) may be performed to evaluate your pet’s heart rate and rhythm. In some cases, to fully evaluate pets that are suspected to have an abnormal heart rhythm, a 24-hour Holter monitor may also be recommended. Radiographs (or “x-rays”) may be performed to evaluate your pet’s lung fields and heart size. An echocardiogram (heart ultrasound) may be performed to evaluate your pet’s heart size, function, and blood flow (using Doppler technology). When possible these tests will be immediately interpreted by the cardiologist and treatment recommendation will be made based on the results.
How can I be best prepared for my pet’s appointment with the veterinary cardiologist?
Please bring all of your pet’s important medical records. Bringing the results of any recent diagnostic tests (blood tests, electrocardiograms (ECGs or EKGs) or radiographs (“x-rays”)) will help us evaluate your pet efficiently. This will also prevent the repetition of expensive, recently performed tests.
Will my pet need to be sedated or anesthetized to perform the tests?
Cardiac examinations and diagnostics performed on a patient that is not sedated and is therefore fully awake will yield the most accurate results. Additionally, patients with significant heart disease may not be the best candidates for sedation. As such, we do not usually sedate cardiac patients.
When will my pet’s regular veterinarian receive the cardiologist’s report?
Your doctor will be contacted by the cardiologist the same day your pet is seen. A complete report will be faxed with 24hrs of your pet’s visit. Your veterinarian is free to consult with the cardiologist regarding your pet’s condition in the future. In this way, we will provide the best health care team for your pet.