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Learn about "warning signs" for inherited cardiac rhythm disorders
by viewing this video by the Canadian SADS Foundation
Pediatric Cardiology Clinic
A visit to the clinic will begin with an initial assessment by one of the cardiology nurses. Because CHEO is a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine, your visit may also include an initial assessment by a senior medical student or pediatric resident (a doctor who is doing special training to become a pediatric doctor) prior to seeing the cardiologist. Depending upon what tests are required, your visit may take up to two hours. Most new patients will not require any testing on their initial visit.
Arrhythmia Clinic
The arrhythmia clinic is a specialized clinic for children who have, or are at risk for, an abnormal heart rhythm. The cardiologist associated with this clinic is specialized in looking at the electric conduction of the heart and is called an electrophysiologist. The electrophysiologist uses tests such as ECG, stress testing, echocardiography, Holter monitoring, and telemetry.
Since some heart rhythm problems can run in families, the arrhythmia clinic often includes a genetic counsellor, who works with the cardiologist to provide information about the hereditary nature of certain arrhythmias. The counsellor may also help gather family history information and medical records. In some cases, the option of genetic testing may be available.
Pacemaker Clinic
The Pacemaker Clinic is scheduled several times a month for routine follow-up. Previously seen patients and their families can call the Nursing Line (613-737-7600 ext. 3109) with questions concerning the child’s pacemaker or other health issues.
When your child’s heart needs a pacemaker, it is inserted to relieve symptoms of heart rhythm disturbances. It does this by restoring normal heart rates. Regular follow-up clinic visits ensure the pacemaker is working properly.
During your child’s visit, a small computer is used to read information inside the pacemaker. The first step is to apply 5 stickers attached to 5 leads (insulated wires), which connect with the small computer. Then, a special pacemaker magnet is placed on the skin over your child’s pacemaker. Many parts of the pacemaker are checked during these visits including the pacemaker settings, the battery status and the leads.
Many of the pacemaker’s functions can be adjusted or programmed by the pacemaker doctor or nurse to meet your child’s needs and to help the system last as long as possible.
During this appointment you may also be scheduled for an ECG and/or Holter. X–rays are also routinely requested at this time.
Satellite and Outreach Clinics
The Cardiology Department performs outreach clinics to Iqualuit, Baffin Island once to twice a year. Children with suspected and known heart disease from the communities of Nunavut can receive full cardiac evaluations during these clinics, often saving them a more extensive trip to Ottawa. |