What are the results of testing (stress EKG test, stress echocardiography, thallium scan) so far?
These tests measure how the heart responds to increased oxygen demand (stress test) and how effectively the heart pumps blood, which may help determine what treatment would be most effective. The following test results suggest that there is adequate blood flow to the heart muscle and that medication may be enough to control symptoms. Surgery or angioplasty with stenting may be an option but may offer no additional benefit over medication and may involve more risk. • Exercise stress test results are normal (or mildly abnormal), and the person can exercise well. • The function of the left ventricle is normal (ejection fraction is greater than 50%). • Thallium scan results show that blood to the heart muscle is normal or mildly abnormal (no cold spots or just a single, small cold spot). The following findings suggest that the heart muscle is not getting enough blood or oxygen. Treatment may be needed to prevent permanent heart muscle damage and reduced heart function. • Exercise stress te