This video is intended as an introductory guide for patients, the general public and healthcare staff regarding CPET.


What is CPET?

Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET) is a non-invasive method used to assess the performance of the heart and lungs at rest and during exercise.


Who might need a CPET test?

- Patients scheduled for major surgery
- Patients taking part in a testing for the diagnosis of heart and lung
disease
- Patients in rehabilitation following a major illness



What does the test involve?

During the CPET test the patient will be required to perform mild exercise on an upright bicycle whilst breathing through a mouthpiece. Each breath will be measured to assess how the body is performing. The capacity and strength of the lungs is measured before and during exercise. The heart tracing (ECG) will also be recorded prior to, during and post exercise.

The CPET test will lasts for a total of 40 minutes; however the patient will only be required to exercise for approximately 10 minutes. The test requires your maximum effort to ensure the most reliable diagnostic information is obtained.



How fit does a patient need to be to perform the test?

Many patients worry that because they do not participate in regular exercise, they may not be able to complete the test. CPET is not a maximal tolerance test and the assessments are applicable as much to athletes as to those who are elderly or unfit.


Are there any risks?

The risk for CPET is the same as for mild-moderate exercise. The number of patients who develop symptoms is low (1:1000), and it is the same as for exercise testing in cardiology. We will be monitoring the patient closely during the test, with continuous ECG, blood pressure and oxygen measurements. If they develop significant symptoms, the trained staff will stop the testing.


What information will be analysed?

- Lung Function: Flow volume loops
- Oxygen Consumption during exercise (VO2 max)
- Anaerobic Threshold
- Heart performance during exercise
- Blood gas measurement from blood sample taken from the earlobe
- Exercise 12 lead ECG


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