Abdominal Aortic Ultrasound
An abdominal aortic ultrasound assesses for plaque formation in the aorta and measures the size of the aorta. This test is often used to identify an abdominal aortic aneurysm. An abdominal aortic aneurysm is an enlargement of a large blood vessel, which can lead to rupture if severe.
Carotid Artery Ultrasound
Using ultrasound, this study visualizes plaque in the carotid arteries. Carotid arteries supply blood to the brain and blockages of these arteries can lead to a stroke. Early detection of carotid artery disease can help to identify patients at risk for stroke and to initiate strategies to prevent stroke.
Coagulation Study
Certain cardiovascular diseases are associated with blood clots. Among these diseases are deep vein thrombosis or DVT (blood clots in the veins of the lower extremities) and atrial fibrillation (a form of arrhythmia with an irregular heart rhythm). These diseases are often treated with blood thinners (e.g. warfarin) which require the periodic measurement of the clotting ability of the blood. One common blood test is the INR, which measures the effect of warfarin on the clotting ability of the blood. Changes of the INR below or above a therapeutic range require adjustment of the dose of warfarin.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram uses ultrasound to visualize the heart and the large adjacent blood vessels. This test is used to assess the pump function of the heart and the ability of the heart valves to open and close. We are proud to inform you that our echocardiogram laboratory is fully accredited by ICAEL and we recently added 3D echocardiography to our tools to diagnose heart disease.
Electrocardiogram (ECG)
An electrocardiogram (ECG) is a graphic tracing of the electrical activity caused by the excitation of the heart muscle. An ECG is often used as an initial test for patients with suspected heart disease.
Event Recorder
A small machine, worn by a patient, that records the patient's ECG during usual daily activity. An event monitor is often used in patients who have palpitations, dizziness or an unexplained episode of syncope (passing out). An event monitor helps to diagnose arrhythmias, which sometimes cause the symptoms mentioned above.
Hemodynamics
A study that looks at the properties and flow of blood using arterial/venous diameters, blood consistency, and vasculature.
Holter and Event Monitoring
A portable device used to measure the electrical activity of the heart over an extended period of time (usually 24 hours), allowing detection of electrical disturbances of the heart. A Holter Monitor is often used in patients who have palpitations, dizziness or an unexplained episode of syncope.
Lower Extremity Arterial Study
Using ultrasound this study examines the blood flow in legs and arms. This test is used to diagnose peripheral artery disease (PAD). PAD is caused by plaque build-up in the arteries of the legs or the arms. Typical symptoms of PAD include pain in the affected extremity which usually worsens with increased physical activity. We are proud to announce that out vascular laboratory is accredited by the ICAVL.
Lower Extremity Venous Study
This study uses ultrasound to assess the venous blood flow of the legs. The venous ultrasound study helps to identify blood clots in the lower extremities and to diagnose incompetent leg veins. Both conditions typically lead to leg swelling and leg pain. We are proud to announce that out vascular laboratory is accredited by the ICAVL.
Nuclear Stress Test
Using small amounts of a radioactive tracer, this test visualizes the perfusion of the heart muscle and helps us to diagnose coronary heart disease, a condition, in which plaque formation of the coronary arteries decreases the blood supply to the heart. Patients often experience chest pain and/ or shortness of breath with minimal exertion if blood supply to the heart is not sufficient. Our nuclear laboratory is accredited by the ACR.
Renal Scan
The nuclear renal scan measures blood flow to the kidneys. This test can diagnose impaired blood flow to the kidneys, which is sometimes the cause of impaired kidney function and high blood pressure.
Renal Ultrasound
An ultrasound that studies the renal system (kidneys, bladders, and ureters). Size, shape, and position of the organs are looked at as well as their blood vessels.
Stress Test
Images are taken of the left ventricular function during exercise induced activities. The test is conducted with nuclear imaging, MRI, and echocardiography and is used to provoke any abnormalities.
