Our complete exercise physiology laboratory includes a state-of-the-art gas exchange and metabolic analysis system.  For children with known cardiac defects, this is a growing part of evaluation following cardiac surgery.  The test can also be used to assess fatigue and weakness in children without heart defects.

To perform the test, the child runs on a treadmill while wearing a mask.  It is similar to the treadmill stress test, with the addition of the mask that measures gases in the breath. 

The test typically takes about 20-30 minutes and the results are discussed immediately following the study.