Question:
Abnormal Cardiopulmonary Stress Test Results

During my cardiac pulm stress test the doctor detected an abnormality at the ST (?) I now have to see a cardiologist before I can have surgery. It is now 8/10, I am approved for this surgery, I have a scheduled surgery date of 9/3 and all my pre-op testing has been completed! NOW THIS! Anyone out there come up against this in their stress test? Anyone.....??? Let's hope the indication was a "false-positive" reading.    — DEANNA Z. (posted on August 10, 2002)

August 10, 2002
ST depressions on a stress test can be an indication for coronary artery disease, but there can also be 15% chance of a false positive result. A cardiologist should order a stress thallium test, which is taking the test you had a step farther. If this is positive then you should have an angiogram. It is very necessary to have this cleared up before going into surgery. A good cardiologist can accomplish this in time for you to keep your September date.
   — Sue A.