Cardiopulmonary Exercise Stress Testing (CPET)

Before the Test

• On the day of the test you may eat a light meal two or more hours before your appointment.
• Please avoid cigarettes and coffee/ Energy drinks for at least 2 hours before your appointment.
• Take your normal medications.
• Wear comfortable clothes and either low-heeled shoes or trainers.

About the Test

• The cardio-pulmonary stress test measures your exercise capacity and identifies the cause of shortness of breath. This information may be useful in determining your operative risk and predicting how you will feel after surgery.

What will happen to me during the test?

• You will be asked to ride a stationary bicycle while measurements are made of your heart rate and testsare performed on the air that you breathe.
• Your heart rate is monitored using continuous electrocardiograph (ECG) monitoring and you will be asked to breathe through a special mouthpiece or mask.
• The test will last about 40 minutes of which 10 minutes will be cycling.
• You will not be asked to exercise any more than you feel comfortable with and you can stop cycling at any time.

What happens after the test?

• You will be monitored until your heart rate returns to normal and then you will be free to go home.

How will I know the results of my test?

• Your results will be sent to the physician who ordered the test. During your follow-up appointment, your physician will discuss with you the results of your test.