Objective: to compare the relative value of Atrial Pacing and Exercise Electrocardiography in the diagnosis of Myocardial Ischaemia.
Design: prospective study in patients referred for coronary cineangiography.
Setting: Cineangiography and Ergonometry Departments of Cardiology Service. Santa Maria Hospital.
Patients: 16 patients (mean age 52.4 +/- 6.3), 13 males and 3 females. All were submitted to Atrial Pacing, Exercise Test and Coronariography.
Results: both tests were concordant in all cases but one, with negative Atrial Pacing, positive Exercise Test and negative Coronariography.
Conclusions: Atrial Pacing compares favourably with Exercise Test in the diagnosis of Coronary Ischaemic Disease. It may constitute a valid alternative in patients unable to perform a conclusive Exercise Test.