The resting ECG records the heart's electrical activity at a precise moment within 10 minutes - ideal for a rapid assessment. The cardiac Holter provides continuous monitoring over 24 to 48 hours. The CardioSTAT goes a step further: it's a wireless, water-resistant ambulatory monitor that records for up to 14 days, capturing intermittent arrhythmias that the other two tests miss.

Yes, that's one of the main advantages of CardioSTAT over the traditional Holter. The device is water-resistant and adheres directly to the skin, without wires or cumbersome electrodes. Patients can shower, exercise and go about their normal daily activities for the duration of the recording.

A single clinical measurement does not accurately reflect a patient's blood pressure reality. ABPM records blood pressure at regular 24-hour intervals, day and night. It can be used to detect masked hypertension (normal in the clinic, high at home), eliminate the white coat effect (high blood pressure only in the presence of the doctor) and accurately assess the effectiveness of antihypertensive treatment.

MAPA is well tolerated by the vast majority of patients. An automatic cuff is fitted to the arm and inflated at regular intervals - every 15 to 30 minutes during the day, and less frequently at night. Some people feel a slight pressure on the arm during nighttime inflation, but this does not usually significantly affect sleep quality.

Cardiac ultrasound (echocardiogram) uses ultrasound to visualize in real time the structure and function of the heart: valves, heart muscle, blood flow. The examination is totally painless, requires no radiation or injections, and lasts around 30 to 45 minutes. It is indicated in cases of heart murmur, unexplained shortness of breath, hypertension, heart failure or family history of heart disease.

Spirometry measures lung capacity and detects obstructions or restrictions of the airways. It is recommended for diagnosing asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema, or for monitoring smokers and people exposed to occupational hazards. It is also often required for pre-operative check-ups and civil aviation medical examinations.

Yes, a medical prescription is required for these tests (ECG, CardioSTAT, Holter, MAPA, cardiac ultrasound, spirometry). If you don't have one, a medical consultation can be held at the clinic to assess your situation and issue the necessary prescription the same day, depending on your condition.

These examinations are not covered by the RAMQ when performed in a private clinic. To find out the current rates, consult our Rates section or contact us directly - our team will inform you according to the type of examination required, and will be able to guide you if your private insurance offers applicable coverage.

Consult us for a cardiovascular evaluation if you experience palpitations or a racing heart, chest pain or tightness, unexplained dizziness or syncope, shortness of breath on exertion, high or irregular blood pressure. These tests are also recommended as a preventive measure if you have a family history of heart disease or diabetes, or as part of a pre-operative check-up.

Installation is quick - less than 10 minutes. A healthcare professional places the electrodes or adhesive device on your chest. For the classic Holter, a small recording box is attached to your belt or shoulder. With CardioSTAT, the device is attached directly to the skin, with no visible wires. You can then return home and carry on with your normal activities for the duration of the recording.

Once the recording period is over, the device is returned to the clinic, and the data is sent to a specialist for analysis. The results are then communicated to your GP for coordinated follow-up. For resting ECG, cardiac ultrasound and spirometry, analysis is carried out on site and results are available rapidly, usually the same or next day.