Dobutamine Stress Echo (DSE)

When it comes to diagnosing heart conditions, doctors often need to understand how the heart functions under stress. For patients who cannot perform a traditional treadmill stress test, Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography (DSE) offers a safe and accurate alternative.

Under the expertise of Dr. Jaydutt B Tekani, an experienced cardiologist, DSE is used to evaluate how well the heart muscle and valves work when stimulated, helping to detect coronary artery disease, assess heart strength, and guide treatment decisions.

What Is Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography?

Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography is a non-invasive imaging test that uses ultrasound and medication to mimic the effects of exercise on the heart. Instead of walking or running on a treadmill, the patient receives a drug called Dobutamine through an intravenous line.

Dobutamine increases the heart rate and contraction strength, simulating the effect of physical activity. While this happens, ultrasound images are taken to observe how the heart walls and chambers function under stress.

This allows Dr. Tekani to identify any areas of reduced blood flow or abnormal movement that might indicate blockages or other heart issues.

Why Is DSE Performed?

DSE is recommended when a standard treadmill or exercise stress test is not possible due to physical limitations, joint problems, or medical conditions.

It helps in diagnosing or assessing:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD): Detecting blockages in heart arteries
• Heart valve diseases: Evaluating how valves function under stress
• Cardiomyopathy: Assessing weakened heart muscles
• Post heart attack evaluation: Checking viable heart tissue
• Pre-surgical assessment: Determining heart fitness before major surgery

How Is the Procedure Done?

1. Preparation: Electrodes are placed on your chest to monitor your heart rhythm. A small IV line is inserted for Dobutamine delivery.
2. Resting Echo: Baseline echocardiographic images of your heart are taken.
3. Dobutamine Infusion: The drug is slowly infused, gradually increasing your heart rate. Ultrasound images are continuously recorded to monitor heart wall motion and function.
4. Monitoring: Blood pressure, ECG, and symptoms are closely monitored throughout. Once the desired heart rate is reached, the medication is stopped.
5. Recovery: The effects of Dobutamine wear off within minutes, and you will be monitored until your heart rate returns to normal.

The entire test usually takes 30–45 minutes and does not require hospital admission.

Benefits of Dobutamine Stress Echo

• Non-invasive and safe
• Provides real-time visual assessment of heart function
• Detects blockages or poor blood supply
• Useful for patients unable to exercise
• No exposure to radiation
• Quick recovery and minimal discomfort

Dr. Jaydutt B Tekani ensures the test is performed under close supervision, maintaining patient comfort and safety throughout the procedure.

After the Test

Following the test, Dr. Tekani carefully analyzes the echocardiographic images and test results to identify any areas of concern. Based on the findings, he will discuss the diagnosis and, if necessary, recommend further treatment such as medication, angiography, or lifestyle modifications.

Expert Cardiac Evaluation with Dr. Jaydutt B Tekani

If you are experiencing chest pain, breathlessness, or unexplained fatigue, or have risk factors for heart disease, a Dobutamine Stress Echo can provide vital information about your heart’s health.

Consult Dr. Jaydutt B Tekani, a trusted cardiologist, for an accurate, non-invasive heart assessment and personalised care.

Book your appointment today to ensure your heart is functioning at its best.