Noninvasive Procedures

Electrocardiograms provide information regarding the electrical activity of the heart, as well as various other cardiac abnormalities such as heart attacks and irregular rhythms. EKG’s are often necessary to make a diagnosis as well as for follow-up.

Echocardiogram or Echo is a very essential, non-invasive test that uses two-dimensional, Doppler, M-mode, and color flow ultrasonic (sound wave) imaging for the assessment of the heart’s internal structures, size and function, as well as valve function and other important disorders such as congenital heart defects. The image is produced by moving a transducer (a sensitive wand like device) over your chest area.

Enhanced External Counterpulsation has been referred to as the “natural bypass.” A series of non-invasive treatment sessions that are used to relieve or eliminate the suffering of patients with ischemic heart diseases such as angina and heart failure. Treatment consists of inflatable cuffs wrapped around the patients legs which are then, inflated and deflated with each heartbeat. This promotes blood flow throughout the body, particularly your heart. EECP enhances the body’s ability to create new pathways for blood flow around blocked/clogged arteries. Accelerating the formation of tiny blood vessels (“collaterals“), helping increase healthy blood flow to the hearts therefore, reducing stress on the heart muscle.

An ambulatory Holter monitor is a portable device worn for 24-hours while tape recording your heart beat to detect irregularities in rhythm.

Patient activated Holter monitor, like recorders and continuous event monitors are used for an extended period of time, to assist in the evaluation of sporadic cardiac symptoms or events.

Pacemaker and AICD are implantable devices for patients with arrhythmias. There are several tests that can be performed to evaluate your pacemaker. Many of the routine pacer checks are done via telephone transmission from the patient’s home. Periodically, the patient may need to come to the office for a more formal evaluation or for computerized reprogramming of the device. This allows for our proactive management in the patients long term care.

The tilt table test is used to see how a change in position from lying to standing affects heart rate and blood pressure. The test is used to try and reproduce your symptoms of syncope. Syncope has many causes, one possible cause is a sudden slowing of the heart, combined with a drop in blood pressure. The reduction of the amount of blood flowing to the brain, can result in syncope (fainting).

Non-invasive tests that are beneficial in the assessment of peripheral vascular disease or circulation disorders. The use of various ultrasound and pressure recording techniques, the arteries and veins of the extremities can be studied. Additionally these exams can identify abnormalities in the carotid arteries of the neck and the abdominal aorta.

Coumadin (generic name “Warfarin”) is an anticoagulant medication or blood thinner that reduces the formation of blood clots. Anticoagulants aide in the prevention of heart attacks and strokes, as well as other cardiovascular problems that result from blood clots. Many patients are required to be on Coumadin therapy a very long time therefore, important lifestyle considerations are advised. Effective management of the dosage, as well as response to the dosage are very important to the overall health and wellbeing of the patient. Our professionals will assist in finding your optimum dosage, as well as, answer any questions or concerns you may have about side-effects, interactions with your other medications or antibiotics, and dietary restrictions.