Procedures

Below you will find a list of some of the procedures or tests performed in our office. There is a brief description of each with patient instructions that can be downloaded.

ABDOMINAL AORTA ULTRASOUND
This is an ultrasound examination of the abdomen in order to evaluate the main artery (aorta) for dilatation (aneurysm). Exam time: approximately 30 minutes.

Preparation: nothing by mouth for 6 hours before exam.

CAROTID ULTRASOUND
This is an ultrasound examination of the neck in order to evaluate for plaque and blockages in the arteries that supply blood to the brain.
Exam time: approximately 1 hour.

Preparation: none

FEMORAL ARTERY ULTRASOUND
This is an ultrasound examination of the groin (crease between thigh and belly on right or left) in order to evaluate for femoral vessel rupture, bleeding and other potential complications of a catheterization. Exam time: approximately 30 minutes.

Preparation: none

RESTING ECHOCARDIOGRAM / DOPPLER
This is a resting ultrasound examination of the chest in order to evaluate the valves, chambers and surrounding structures of the heart. Doppler studies are part of every complete echocardiogram and give us valuable information on the dynamics of cardiac filling, pressures and valve function. Exam time: approximately 1 hour.

Preparation: none

REGULAR TREADMILL TEST
This is an exercise test using ECG to monitor electrical changes in the heart during and after stress. This can help determine if there is a blood flow problem to your heart.
Preparation: No caffeine or nicotine day of test. Nothing by mouth for 2 hours before exam. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. No one-piece outfits or panty hose. Do not use lotions or powders on upper body. Do not take Beta blockers and Calcium channel blockers day of exam. (check with your physician if unsure) *DO NOT TAKE VIAGRA FOR 24 HOURS BEFORE EXAM*

Informed consent [Download Form (PDF 602k)]

STRESS ECHOCARDIOGRAM
Ultrasound used to image your heart before and after exercise. Exam time: allow approximately 2 hours. Pharmacologic agents (Dobutamine Stress) may be used to simulate exercise in those unable to stress their hearts sufficiently with exercise.
Preparation: No caffeine or nicotine day of test. Nothing by mouth for 2 hours before exam. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. No one-piece outfits or panty hose. Do not use lotions or powders on upper body. Do not take Beta blockers and Calcium channel blockers day of exam. (check with your physician if unsure) *DO NOT TAKE VIAGRA FOR 24 HOURS BEFORE EXAM*

Informed consent for exercise stress [Download Form (PDF 625k)]

Informed consent for Dobutamine stress [Download Form (PDF 622k)]

MYOCARDIAL PERFUSION IMAGING
This test uses Nuclear Medicine to evaluate the blood supply to your heart. The test involves the placement of an intravenous line (IV) in your arm or hand through which a small, safe amount of radioactive isotope will be injected. Images of the heart will be obtained with a special camera at rest and after exercise. Those patients unable to walk on a treadmill will be given an injection of a pharmacologic agent (Dipyridamole) which duplicates the effect of exercise for the heart. Exam time: approximately 4 hours. Preparation: the patient will receive specific instructions from the cardiology office. Call (360) 256-1232 with any questions or if instructions are not received.

Informed consent [Download Form (PDF 610k)]

HOLTER MONITOR
The Holter monitor provides continuous monitoring of heart rhythm. The review of these tracings allows the cardiologist to note abnormalities in the heart rate or rhythm which may or may not be causing your symptoms. The test requires you be hooked up to the monitor for approximately 24 hours, involving an appointment to be hooked up and an appointment the next day for disconnect. The hook-up for this test involves the placement of electrodes on the chest attached to wires leading to the monitor. The monitor is lightweight, and will be attached to your belt or to a shoulder strap.

Detailed patient instructions [Download Form (PDF 624k)]

EVENT MONITOR
An event monitor is used for patients who have symptoms that may not occur on a daily basis, but instead occur intermittently. Therefore, this monitor is assigned to you for seven (7) days. The review of the acquired tracings allows the cardiologist to note abnormalities in the heart rate or rhythm which may or may not be causing your symptoms. Upon arrival to our office, you will view a video explaining the use of this monitor. The hook-up for this system involves the placement of two (2) electrodes on the chest attached to wires leading to the monitor. The monitor is the size of a pager and can be attached to your belt, neck lanyard or placed in your pocket.

Detailed patient instructions [Download Form (PDF 594k)]