FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding our services and practice. We aim to provide clarity and insights to ensure you feel informed and confident in your healthcare journey.
For solicitors and legal professionals
Before your appointment
What conditions do you treat?
Dr Mukherjee specialises in a range of conditions including abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmia) - e.g. atrial fibrillation (AF) or atrial flutter, supra-ventricular tachycardia (SVT), ventricular tachycardia (VT) or ventricular ectopics (VEs). In addition, he also has an interest in postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), heart failure, heart muscle disorders as well as inherited heart conditions. He sees patients for the management of high blood pressure, high cholesterol and cardiovascular risk prevention.
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Patients may have a range of symptoms including dizziness, palpitations, irregular heart beats, fainting (blackouts), chest pain, breathlessness, extra (premature) heart beats as well as swelling in the legs and ankles.
How can I book an appointment?
To book an appointment, you can navigate to the 'Book Now' on this website and contact my secretary via email or telephone.
Do I need a referral from my GP or another doctor?
A GP or specialist referral is helpful but is not essential. You can self refer for most cardiac consultations - particularly for screening or second opinions
Can I have a virtual consultation?
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Yes, video consultations are available for suitable cases.​
Do you accept both insured and self-pay patients?
Yes, I am recognised by the major UK medical insurers and also accept self-funding patients. Please provide your insurer/ authorisation number prior to the appointment
Tests and procedures
What tests might I need during my cardiology appointment?
Depending on your symptoms and medical history, you may need tests such as an ECG, an echocardiogram, blood tests or heart rhythm monitoring. We will recommend the most appropriate investigations needed after your appointment.
How long do the tests take?
Most standard tests such as an ECG and echocardiogram take between 10-30 minutes. Longer continuous tests (e.g. Holter monitoring) can take between 24hrs up to 7 days or longer. In these instances, the monitor records your heart beat continuously over a period of time using small electrodes and a portable device which is worn on your belt or chest. You would go home and be able to do most daily activities as usual during this time.
Are there any other specialised tests I might need?
We may recommend the need for an exercise (treadmill) stress test or advanced scans such as a cardiac CT or cardiac MRI scan. If you need investigation for high blood pressure, we may ask you to wear a 24hr blood pressure monitor to evaluate your blood pressure over a period of time; you may also need some specialist blood tests.
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A CT scan provides detailed 3D images of the heart and coronary arteries. It can be useful for detecting blockages in the heart arteries or assessing for build-up of calcium.
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A cardiac MRI scan uses a magnet and radio-waves to produce high-quality images of the heart structure and function without the use of radiation.
In patients who have chest pain, you may need a coronary angiogram which is a procedure performed in hospital under local anaesthetic. This test uses X-rays and contrast dye to look at your coronary arteries. If a narrowing in the heart arteries is found during an angiogram, your cardiologist will discuss treatment options with you including whether stents might be necessary.
After your appointment
When will I get my results
You will usually receive your results via letter or email unless you inform us otherwise. Some results (e.g. ECG or echocardiogram) might be discussed during your appointment. Other tests (e.g. lab tests or imaging scans) might take a few days for formal reporting. Any urgent findings will be communicated promptly.
Will my GP get a copy of the results?
We will normally send a copy of your results to your GP and referring doctor, unless you request otherwise.
What should I do if I feel unwell after a test?
If you feel unwell after a test or procedure, please contact the clinic or seek medical advice.
Billing and insurance
Do I need to pay for my appointment or test
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Please check with your insurer if you are covered for the appointments, tests and treatments that you may need. Please obtain an authorisation number before your appointment. Most insurers cover the full cost of consultations and routine cardiac investigations but this depends on your policy. Some plans may have an excess or limit.
How does it work for self-pay patients?
Many patients choose to self-fund their consultations, tests or treatments. A clear schedule of fees is available on request and all costs are discussed in advance so there are no surprises.
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Fees are usually due at the time of booking or on the day of your appointment. You will receive a detailed receipt for your records.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you need to cancel or reschedule, please give at least 24-48 hours notice. Late cancellations or missed appointments may incur a fee as time has been reserved exclusively for you.
Follow-up and communication
Will I need a follow-up appointment?
Many patients will have a follow-up appointment to review results, monitor progress or adjust treatments. The timing will depend on your condition and type of investigation.
Can I get copies of my letters or reports?
Yes, you can request copies of your letters, reports or test results at any time.
Tests and procedures
What is catheter ablation and what will I experience?
Catheter ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat certain types of heart rhythm disturbances (arrhythmias), such as atrial fibrillation, supraventricular tachycardia (SVT), or atrial flutter.
During the procedure, thin flexible tubes called catheters are passed through a vein (usually in the groin) and guided into your heart under X-ray guidance. The tip of the catheter delivers heat (radiofrequency energy), freezing (cryoablation), or short electric pulses (pulsed field ablation) to precisely target and destroy the small area of heart tissue responsible for triggering or maintaining the abnormal rhythm.
You may be sedated, or under general anaesthetic depending on the type of arrhythmia and hospital protocol. Your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and oxygen levels will be closely monitored throughout.
The procedure typically takes between one and three hours (depending on which arrhythmia is being treated), and most people go home the same day or after an overnight stay. Some patients may feel mild chest fluttering, pressure, or fatigue for a short time afterwards — this is normal and settles quickly.
Your doctor will review your results and provide advice on recovery, medications, and when you can return to normal activities. The aim of catheter ablation is to reduce or eliminate recurrent abnormal heart rhythms and improve your long-term quality of life.
What is a pacemaker and what will I experience?
A pacemaker is a small medical device that helps regulate your heart rate when it beats too slowly or irregularly. It sends gentle electrical signals to your heart to keep it beating at a normal, steady rate.
The device consists of a battery and computer unit (the generator) and one or more leads (wires) that connect to your heart. It continuously monitors your heartbeat and activates only when needed. The procedure to implant a pacemaker is usually done under local anaesthetic with light sedation, meaning you’ll be awake but relaxed and should not feel pain. The pacemaker is inserted just under the skin below your collarbone, and the leads are guided through a vein into the heart using X-ray guidance.
The procedure typically takes about one to two hours, and most patients go home the same or next day. After the implant, you may feel some tenderness or mild swelling at the insertion site for a few days. You’ll receive advice on caring for the wound and on short-term activity restrictions (such as avoiding heavy lifting or raising your arm fully on the implant side for a few weeks).
Your pacemaker will be checked regularly — either in person or remotely — to ensure it’s functioning correctly and to adjust settings if needed. Most modern devices last 8–12 years before the battery needs replacement. The aim of a pacemaker is to restore a regular heartbeat, reduce symptoms like dizziness or fainting, and improve overall wellbeing.