Blv. Zhan D'Ark, Nd. 111 · across from the new maternity hospital· Hours: Mon–Fri 07:00–20:00 · Sat 07:00–13:00·Contact us: 069 800 8006•
Tirana Polyclinic

Exams

Exams are performed by the specialist during your visit, so the result can be interpreted right away.

Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Cardiology

Records the electrical activity of the heart within a few minutes. It detects rhythm disorders, signs of ischemia and enlargement of the heart chambers.

Preparation: No preparation is needed. It takes about 5 minutes and is painless.

Echocardiography

Cardiology

An ultrasound of the heart that shows the size of the chambers, the pumping strength, the valves and the pressures inside the heart. It is the basic exam for heart failure and valve disease.

Preparation: No fasting is needed. It takes 20–30 minutes.

24-hour Holter ECG

Cardiology

A small device records your ECG throughout the day and night while you go about your usual life. It is used for palpitations and dizziness, and to capture arrhythmias that do not appear during the visit.

Preparation: Take a shower before the device is fitted, as it must not get wet. Note the time of any symptoms during the recording.

24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring

Cardiology

A small device with a cuff measures blood pressure automatically every 15–30 minutes during the day and night. It shows real-life values outside the medical setting, blood pressure during the night and the effect of treatment; it also detects “white coat hypertension”.

Preparation: Wear a top with loose sleeves. During each measurement keep your arm still, and note the times of sleep, medication and any symptoms.

Gastroscopy and colonoscopy

Gastro-hepatology

Examination of the stomach (gastroscopy) and the large intestine (colonoscopy, sigmoidoscopy) with an endoscope. During the exam, biopsies can be taken, Helicobacter pylori can be tested for and colon polyps can be removed.

Dr. Klerida Shehu with the endoscope
Preparation: Gastroscopy: fast for 6–8 hours. Colonoscopy: a light diet the day before and bowel preparation according to the instructions the doctor gives you when you book. Tell us if you take blood-thinning medication.

Abdominal ultrasound

Gastro-hepatology

An ultrasound of the abdominal organs: the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, spleen and kidneys. It is the basic exam for hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease), gallstones and abnormal liver tests. No radiation.

Preparation: Come fasting: no food for 6–8 hours. You may drink a little water. Take your usual medication with a little water.

Thyroid ultrasound

Endocrinology

An ultrasound of the thyroid gland that measures its size and assesses nodules according to the TI-RADS classification. It helps decide whether a nodule should be monitored or biopsied. No radiation.

Preparation: No preparation is needed. Avoid necklaces and high-collared clothing.

Imaging interpretation

All specialties

X-rays, CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans you have had at other imaging centers are interpreted by the specialist in relation to your symptoms and clinical condition. Exams that use radiation are not performed at the clinic.

Preparation: Bring the images (CD or download link) and the radiologist’s report, as well as previous exams for comparison.

Laboratory tests

All specialties

Blood samples for tests are taken at the clinic. The specialist reviews the results and explains what they mean for you.

Preparation: For blood glucose, lipid profile and some other tests, come fasting (8–12 hours without food; water is allowed). Take your usual medication unless your doctor has told you otherwise.

Joint ultrasound

Rheumatology

Ultrasound of the joints and tendons shows fluid in the joint, inflammation of the synovial membrane, erosions and crystals. It is performed during the rheumatology visit, with no radiation.

Preparation: No preparation is needed. Wear clothing that allows the joint to be examined to be uncovered.

Intra-articular injection

Rheumatology

An injection of medication (a corticosteroid or hyaluronic acid) directly into the joint to reduce pain and inflammation. When it is done under ultrasound guidance, the needle reaches the right place accurately.

Preparation: Tell the doctor if you take blood-thinning medication or if you have diabetes. After the injection, rest the joint for 24–48 hours.

What to bring to your visit

  • previous tests and exams (a phone copy is fine)
  • a list of the medication you take, with doses
  • your ID card
  • for the ECG and blood pressure Holter: light clothing, a top with loose sleeves
  • for abdominal ultrasound: come fasting (6–8 hours without food)

Need an appointment?

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