Cardiovascular Diagnosis & Imaging
Detection of something abnormal is typically found on a routine exam by your doctor. Your doctor may notice a heart murmur by listening with a stethoscope or suspecting something based on your symptoms. Typically your physician will order further testing or evaluation.
Some of the most common tests performed at Grandview Medical Center are:
- Echocardiogram (ECHO) uses sound waves to assess the function and structure of the heart valve and muscle. This allows us to get a closer view of the heart valve, how it functions and how blood is moving through each of the valves.
- Transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is another type of ECHO in which patients are slightly sedated and a tube is inserted into the esophagus. Because the heart rests so close to the esophagus, this allows us a very clear view of the heart without tissue, muscle and ribs in the way.
- Electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test that shows the electrical conduction of the heart or its rhythm.
- Heart catheterization (cardiac or heart cath), is where a thin hollow tube is placed in the vessels leading to the heart and can identify blockages or narrowing of the vessels leading to the heart. We can also calculate the amount of pressure that builds in the heart. During this procedure, dye is injected into the heart arteries to detect any blockages and other abnormalities.
- Computed tomography angiogram (CTA) is an imaging procedure used to produce detailed images of the blood vessels and the anatomy of the heart valve.
- Carotid ultrasound is a way that we can look at the condition of the carotid arteries to verify that there is adequate blood flow through the carotids.
- Pulmonary function test (PFT) is a breathing test that helps us determine the capacity of air moving in and out of the lungs, allows us to see if there is anything lung related restricting air flow.
During your initial visit, the heart valve team physicians will discuss the recommended treatment options with you. If you have any questions, please call the heart valve clinic and speak with a coordinator.