Patient Education

The Microvolt T-Wave Alternans (MTWA) Test is a non-invasive test to identify patients at risk of life threatening heart rhythm disturbances that can lead to sudden cardiac arrest. If you have had a stress test then you have had a test which is very similar to a MTWA test.

If your doctor ordered this test for you, it's because you may be at risk for sudden cardiac arrest. Most people who suffer a cardiac arrest episode have an underlying, pre-identifiable, electrical disorder that puts them at risk. Microvolt T-Wave Alternans testing can identify many of those electrical disorders and therefore people at risk for sudden cardiac arrest.

The Microvolt T-Wave Alternans test requires that your heart rate is raised for a short time. Therefore, the test will most likely be performed using a treadmill.

A nurse or technologist will apply sensors to multiple spots on your chest and back. These electrodes are connected to a wire that leads back to the Microvolt T-Wave Alternans equipment. The nurse or technologist will ask you to begin walking on a treadmill to raise your heart rate. The exercise portion of the test will be approximately 8-10 minutes. Information about your heart will be collected at three different times - during rest, while you walk on the treadmill and after the exercise.

Having the test is no more difficult than taking a brisk walk. Once the test is complete, your physician will review the test results and if abnormal may recommend further evaluation. If further evaluation is recommended, your physician may refer you to an electrophysiologist (a cardiologist that specializes in heart rhythms).

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