Exercise Physiology
The cardio pulmonary exercise physiology laboratory at the Mount Sinai Kravis Children’s Heart Center provides comprehensive diagnostic testing for children (and some adults) with congenital heart disease, cardiomyopathy, neuromuscular disorders, pulmonary hypertension, and arrhythmia.
Our specialists study how your child’s heart responds to physical activity and use this information to guide optimal therapies.
Our state of the art cardiopulmonary exercise testing laboratory utilizes a bicycle ergometer and a metabolic cart, which is a machine that measures oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production. We are also able to assess pulmonary function at rest and during exercise, blood pressure, and electrocardiogram (EKG) changes during exercise and recovery.
For certain patients, we may also obtain ultrasound pictures (echocardiography) of how the heart reacts to exercise. Thus, we are able to obtain the most clinically useful data pertaining to your child and their specific medical condition.
The exercise physiologist/cardiologist will carefully monitor your child during the entire test. At Children’s Heart Center, safety is always a top priority.
On the day of your test, please make sure your child is wearing athletic clothing and sneakers. It is best not to eat a heavy meal prior to your scheduled appointment.
Why Choose Children’s Heart Center
At Children’s Heart Center, our staff will create a positive environment for your child so that they can perform physical activities to the best of their ability. We will support your child by motivating them so that they can enjoy the test.