Diagnostic Testing
Adventist Cardiovascular Network offers a comprehensive array of noninvasive diagnostic tests at four locations. From EKGs to stress tests and advanced imaging technology, the network provides the latest in cardiac testing, allowing your physician to make the best, most accurate, diagnosis.
Our expert physicians perform more than 60,000 non-invasive procedures each year — many of which can assess the heart’s condition without the need for surgical procedures.
Knowing how to prepare for an advanced cardiac diagnostic test can help reduce any anxiety you may feel. If you have any questions or concerns, please speak with your cardiologist or physician.
Coronary and Peripheral CT Angiography
The latest technology in diagnosing heart disease is now available through the Adventist Cardiovascular Network. The state-of-the-art, 64-slice CT scanner can perform scans in as little as five seconds.
This scanner enables the medical team to view three-dimensional images of the heart and blood vessels, generates detailed pictures of potential blockages and states coronary calcium scores — a predictor of coronary artery disease. This information may help predict the risk of experiencing a cardiac event.
Echocardiograms (EKG)
An echocardiogram uses sound waves to look at your heart. Images are displayed on a screen that shows the size of your heart, and its muscle and valve activity. This test generally takes about 30 to 40 minutes.
Stress Test
A stress test shows how well your heart is performing during physical exercise. As you walk on a treadmill, your EKG and blood pressure are closely monitored by a cardiologist and a technician. The speed and slope of the treadmill are gradually intensified to increase your heart's work, until you are tired or the doctor stops the test.
Adventist Cardiovascular Network also offers nuclear and drug stress tests. A nuclear stress test is where a patient is injected with a special radioisotope that shows up on an X-ray to show the flow of blood in a rested and working state. A drug stress test is for people who cannot exercise on a treadmill. A special medication is used to stimulate the effects of exercise in order to get the desired results.
For more information on any of the diagnostic screenings offered at the Adventist Cardiovascular Network, call 877-65 HEART (1-877-654-3278).