Cardiac Diagnostic Testing

Angiogram

In this procedure a small catheter is inserted into your wrist or groin then with the guidance of X-ray the catheter is moved to the arteries of the heart. A dye is injected to make help make your arteries easier to see. This test helps your doctor determine if there are any blockages in your heart. You may be asked to stop taking certain medications or begin taking certain medications before the procedure. Most people can have a light meal before this test.

Carotid Dopplers

This is an ultrasound that shows blood flow through the arteries in the neck, no special preparation is required for this test.

Computed Tomography Scan (CT Scan)

Also known as a CAT scan are unlike conventional X-Ray images. The images appear as slices, like slices in a loaf of bread. An X-ray technologist, who has had special training in CT scanning, will perform your scan. The images are then read and reported on by a radiologist, who is a doctor with specialized training in computerized tomography.

Chest X-ray (CXR)

A chest X-ray is a picture of the chest that shows your heart, lungs, airway, blood vessels and lymph nodes. A chest X-ray also shows the bones of your spine and chest, including your breastbone, ribs, collarbone, as well as the upper part of your spine.

Echocardiogram (ECHO), Transthoracic (TTE), Transesophageal (TEE)

These are ultrasound tests that are used to that look at your heart muscle function and heart valves:

• In a Transthoracic ECHO, a cold jelly is placed on the surface of your chest then a wand is rubbed across your chest to produce images of your heart. This is a non-invasive test and no special preparation is required.
• During the Transesophageal ECHO you will receive some medication to help you relax as a tube is placed into your mouth and down into your throat. This will allow us to see your heart muscle and valves more clearly. You will be asked to not eat before this test. You will need someone to drive you home after it is complete.

Epinephrine or Procainamide Challenge Tests

To help us determine if you have a heart rhythm problem, also known as an arrhythmia, we may perform an Epinephrine or Procainamide Challenge. This is a test that looks at the electrical system of your heart and is done on an outpatient basis.

Myocardial Perfusion Study (MIBI)

This test looks at the health of your heart arteries and muscle. MIBI is a name for the radioactive tracer given to you through an IV line. You will have two scans as part of this exam, one after the dye is inserted, while you are resting. The second few hours later after you have exercised. If you are unable to exercise, you may be given medication instead.

Stress Test

You will be asked to exercise on a treadmill or bicycle and at the same time an electrical tracing of your heart will be performed by ECG, see above. This test will look for changes in your ECG. No special preparation is required for this test, however you should wear comfortable shoes.

Stress ECHO

Similar to the stress test above, however an ultrasound of your heart is performed to look for abnormalities in your heart’s muscle function. An abnormality may indicate a heart problem. If you are not able to exercise for this test, your health-care team may suggest the use of a medication to make your heart act like it is exercising.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues within your body. Most MRI machines are large, tube-shaped magnets.