[Atrial pacing and the exercise test in the evaluation of coronary disease. A comparative study].

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.