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Non-Invasive Testing and Procedures
Holter/Event Monitoring
A Holter monitor is a device designed to monitor the heart’s rhythm continuously for 24 hours. The patient wears the device, which includes electrodes attached to the chest, and goes about their daily activity. The device records heart rates and heart rhythm during the day and night, which is then stored on a memory medium and is retrieved and reviewed the next day by a physician at our center.
Event monitors are smaller devices for patient monitoring over a longer period of time, generally up to a month. Unlike the Holter monitor, event monitors only record heart rhythm when the patient pushes a button in response to experiencing a symptom. When a recording is made, it can be transmitted over the phone to our center for analysis.
Nuclear Stress Testing
A stress test can help determine if you have significant blockages in your coronary arteries. It can also help patients with known blockage to ensure enough blood is getting through to the heart muscle.
With a nuclear stress test, a harmless radioisotope is injected into a vein in the arm, which travels to the heart through the circulatory system. The chest is then scanned (without using X-rays) which reveals the status of blood flow to and around the heart.
Sometimes, it is necessary to increase blood flow through the arteries. In these cases, the patient will either be asked to walk on a treadmill or be administered medication if they are not able to walk on the treadmill.
Ultrasound
Echocardiography
ECHOCARDIOGRAM: An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test of the heart that is used to visualize heart chambers and valves. The test is useful for determining if the heart is enlarged, evaluation of the valves to detect leaking or improper function and the evaluation of the function or “pump” of the heart muscle itself. Contrast agents may also be introduced via I.V. to detect abnormal blood flow between the chambers of the heart.
STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAM: Stress echo testing involves exercising on a treadmill while you are closely monitored, with ultrasound images captured before and after the exercise. The test will aid physicians in the detection of coronary artery disease, evaluate your hearts response to activity and the effectiveness of your cardiac treatment plan. In some cases, where physical exercise is not possible, your doctor may choose to administer a medication (Dobutamine) to simulate the physical demands on your heart.
Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory
Vascular ultrasound is a safe noninvasive method used to aid in the detection of blockages in the carotid (neck), arms, abdomen and lower extremities. A qualified Technologist will perform your procedure. Most exams take 30-60 minutes to complete. The test results are available within 24 hours. If an abdominal (aorta/kidney) ultrasound is ordered, fasting (nothing by mouth, except water or prescribed medications) is required 12 hours prior to the scheduled appointment.
Noninvasive exams include:
Carotid Duplex
Venous Duplex – Upper or Lower
Arterial Doppler with Duplex Scan – Upper or Lower
Abdominal Duplex Scan – Renal or Aorta
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment to register.
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