On-Site Diagnostics
Tests Available On-Site
Centrio Medical offers a range of diagnostic tests performed conveniently at our Burnaby clinic, supporting timely and accurate specialist assessments.
Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
An Electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) is a test that measures the electrical activity of the heart. It is used to monitor heart rate, detect abnormal heart rhythms and it may give clues to underlying heart disease.
Important Instructions Before the Test
It is a painless, non-invasive procedure where electrode stickers are attached to the body and electrical signals are recorded. The test usually takes about 5 minutes. Patients should shave their chest hair prior to attending appointment.
Holter Monitor
A Holter Monitor is usually used to diagnose abnormal heart rhythms. Patients wear a small recording device, which is connected to small electrodes that are placed on the chest. It records the heart's activity over a 24-hour period. Patients will be asked to keep a diary to allow the physician to correlate their symptoms with any abnormalities recorded on the Holter Monitor.
Important Instructions Before the Test
Patients should participate in their normal activities while wearing the Holter Monitor but will be unable to shower for 24 hours while wearing the Holter. The tape or adhesives that attach the electrodes may cause minor skin irritation so please inform the doctor if there are concerns of allergies to adhesives. Patients should shave their chest hair prior to attending appointment.
Event Monitor
An Event Monitor is usually used to diagnose abnormal heart rhythms. Patients wear a small recording device, which is connected to small electrodes that are placed on the chest. This technology is ideal for patients who have intermittent or rare symptoms, as the device can be carried for long periods of times (usually around 2 weeks). ECG tracings are recorded for each patient-triggered or auto-triggered event.
Important Instructions Before the Test
Patients should participate in their normal activities while wearing the Event Monitor. The tape or adhesives that attach the electrodes may cause minor skin irritation so please inform the doctor if there are concerns of allergies to adhesives. Patients should shave their chest hair prior to attending appointment.
Exercise Treadmill Test
An Exercise Treadmill Stress Test is used to determine the effects of exercise on the heart. Electrodes are attached to the patient while exercising to allow doctors to detect abnormal heart rhythms and diagnose coronary artery disease. The test involves walking/jogging on a treadmill while the speed and incline of the treadmill gradually increase. The blood pressure will be checked intermittently throughout the test. The test is supervised by a technician the entire time and patients may stop the test at any time for any reason. Patients should report any symptoms that they experience to the technician.
Important Instructions Before the Test
Patients should not eat or smoke 3 hours prior to the test. Patients should take their usual medications unless otherwise directed by the physician. Medications may be taken with sips of water. It is important to dress in comfortable clothing and wear shoes that are suitable for walking on a treadmill. Patients should bring their own towel and drinking water to the appointment. Patients should shave their chest hair prior to attending appointment.
Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitor
An Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitor is used to diagnose blood pressure abnormalities. Patients wear a small device, which is connected to a blood pressure cuff which takes blood pressures over a 24 hour period. It is useful to facilitate achieving blood pressure control and reduce unnecessary treatment.
Important Instructions Before the Test
Patients should participate in their normal activities while wearing the Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitor. There is no special preparation for this test.
Allergy Skin Tests
An Allergy Skin Test or Skin Prick Test is done to assess for immediate skin reaction to a variety of substances. This test is usually done to identify allergies to pollen, mold, pet dander, dust mites and foods. In adults, this is usually done on the forearm.
Important Instructions Before the Test
In order to obtain an accurate test, please do not take any antihistamines or cold medicine for 5 days prior to testing.
FibroScan
A FibroScan is used as a non-invasive method for assessing liver fibrosis. Patients will undergo ultrasound-based elastography through a probe which will measure liver stiffness. It is not painful and usually takes less than 10 minutes.
Important Instructions Before the Test
Patients should not eat for 2-3 hours prior to appointment.
Questions About a Test?
Contact our clinic to learn more about what to expect or how to prepare for your diagnostic test.