Interpretation of diagnostic graded exercise tests on the basis of electrocardiographic, hemodynamic, and symptomatic responses

Abstract

The purpose of this investigation was to determine whether a quanitative approach to interpreting diagnostic graded exercise tests (DGXT) could enhance the probability of predicting presence and severity of coronary artery disease (CAD). In an attempt to supplement the traditional ST segment criterion, hernodynamic, symptomatic, and additional electrocardiographic responses were included. An empirically devised treadmill score (TMS) formula based on graded exercise test responses resulted in the calculation of a single TMS for 85 symptomatic patients who had both coronary angiography and a DGXT.