An
echocardiogram is a painless, harmless procedure for studying the structure and
motion of the heart. Ultrasonic waves are directed through the heart and
reflected back(echoed). This provides a visual image which our cardiologists
view. A written re-port is sent to your primary physician. No special
preparation is necessary. Echocardiograms
are done by appointment at most CVA locations. Stress Echo- cardiograms are
also performed at the Springs and Caritas Medical Mall. This test combines an
ultra-sound study of the heart with a treadmill exam to learn how the heart
functions when it works harder with exercise.
This is an ultrasound test for the carotid arteries located in the neck.
Arteries on the left and right side of the neck are imaged by using painless,
harmless ultrasound waves. A visual image of the arteries in the neck reveals
if arteriosclerotic plaques are present. A written report is sent to your
primary physician. No special preparation is necessary. Carotid Dopplers are
done at the Springs and Caritas locations.
Holter monitoring is a technique for continuous recording (24-48 hours) of
electrocardiograph heart activity to detect changes in the heart's rhythm.
Electrodes are placed on the chest and connected to a portable monitor worn
while continuing regular activities (eating, sleeping, working, etc.). Showers
and swimming should be avoided due to the electrodes. The technician will give
instructions on returning the monitor as well as keeping a diary of activities.
Holter monitoring is available at the Springs, Caritas, and Audubon Rehab
locations.
This is a longer term monitoring over a period of 2-4 weeks. Instructions are
given in using the monitor to record specific symptoms and heart activity
sending the signals via phone for interpretation. Certified Technologists are
available 24hrs. Event Recorders are applied at the Springs and Caritas
locations.
Laboratory tests are often needed to provide CVA Physicians with valuable
information about your overall health. Lab tests are provided as a convenience
for our patients. Tests are arranged by appointment at the Springs Office and
Caritas locations. Lab services are available Monday through Friday.
A comprehensive Nuclear Medicine Imaging facility is available at the Springs
Medical Center and Caritas Medical Mall featuring an Accredited Nuclear
Cardiology Lab, state-of-the-art equipment and Certified Nuclear Technologists.
Cardiolite and Thallium imaging with treadmill exercising and/or medication
stress exams are performed
in our center. A special instruction sheet is available.

Instruction Sheet
Electrocardiograph-monitored treadmill test are available at all Louisville
office locations Monday through Friday. These test are used for several
diagnostic purposes, including exercise tolerance, detection of coronary artery
disease, and evaluation of patient condition following a heart attack.
Treadmill testing requires comfortable walking shoes. Check with your physician
regarding medications to discontinue prior to testing.
Screening tests
are available for individuals who may be at risk for stroke or other vascular
complications related to atherosclerosis (blockage of the arteries).
-
Carotoid Artery
Plaque Screening:
Three out of four strokes are associated with carotoid artery blockage (artery
located in the neck). This test visualizes the build-up of fatty plaque in the
carotoid arteries that can lead to a stroke
-
Carotid
Intimal-Medical Thickening (IMT)
This early
screening measures the wall thickness of the carotid arteries. Increase
thickness indicates development of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).
-
Ankle-Brachial
Index (ABI)
Studies suggest that individuals with an abnormal ABI may be at risk for
peripheral vascular disease and have a higher risk of coronary artery disease.
This test screens for blocked arteries in your legs. Blood pressure readings
are obtained in the arms and legs. ABI is determined by comparing blood
pressure readings in the arms with the readings in the ankles.
-
Abdominal Aortic
Aneurysm Screening
This screening consists of an ultrasound visualization to look for the
existence of an aneurysm (weakness in the wall of the artery) or enlargement in
the abdominal aorta.
Check with Medicare to see if you meet the criteria for coverage of this test.
-
These screenings
are safe and painless procedures using ultrasound
-
Each takes less
than 15 minutes
-
Currently
insurance and Medicare do not cover most screening tests
-
Tests are
performed only at the Springs location: 6420 Dutchmans Pkwy, Suite 200
-
No physician
referal is required
-
Call 891-8300
(Press 4) to schedule an appointment
CardioVascular Associates Cardiac Cath Lab is the first free-standing
outpatient lab in the state of Kentucky, featuring state-of-the-art equipment.
There is a staff of highly trained and experienced nurses and radiology
technologists. Our Cath Lab provides a convenient and pleasant setting for
patients and families. CVA cardiologist also provide these services at area
hospitals. Detailed instructions will be given when your appointment is made.
The Cardiac Cath is a highly technical radiological procedure, using a small
tube or catheter, usually inserted through an artery in the groin area. The
specially trained cardiologist will view your heart and surrounding arteries by
injecting a dye. If heart disease is present, this procedure will indicate the
exact amount of blockage in your coronary arteries. Also the cardiologist will
be able to evaluate the function of your muscle and identify muscle damage and
weakness.
CardioVascular Associates performs other Cardiology Testing at most Louisville
Hospitals. We have schedulers who make appointments and give patient
instructions for special procedures such as...
Transesophageal Echocardiograghy (TEE)
Tilt Table Testing
Percutaneous Transluminal Coronary Angioplasty - PTCA
Coronary Stent
Coronary Atherectomy
Electrophysiology Studies
Permanent Pacemaker Implantation
Radiofrequency Catheter Ablation
Defibrillator Implantation
Cardioversion
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