Vascular Testing
The Vascular Center at Heart and Health Medical, located in Massapequa, is a cutting-edge vascular testing lab run by a team of industry-leading vascular specialists. Vascular diseases can be symptomless and challenging to diagnose, leading to major life-threating issues. Heart & Health employs the latest technology to uncover vascular and cardiology conditions, that may be missed or misdiagnosed by other teams. Heart & Health Medical is the Long Island leader in preventive medical care, contact a specialist if you have any symptoms of vascular or cardiovascular disease, or if you are at high risk for developing these diseases. The specialists will not only test for possible conditions, but they will also put together a treatment or preventative care plan to increase your chances of living a long healthy life, free of chronic cardiovascular disease.
Angiogram
An angiogram is a specialized X-ray procedure that plays a crucial role in diagnosing and evaluating vascular conditions. This diagnostic test is specifically designed to check for blockages or abnormalities in blood flow through the arterial system.
During an angiogram, a contrast agent, typically iodine dye, is injected into the bloodstream. This contrast dye makes the blood vessels visible on the X-ray, allowing physicians to see how blood flows through the arteries. The procedure provides detailed images of the arteries in the heart, brain, kidneys, and other parts of the body.
Angiograms are particularly valuable in identifying blockages that may be causing symptoms like chest pain or signs of a heart attack. They are also used to locate aneurysms (abnormal bulges in arterial walls), arteriovenous malformations (abnormal connections between arteries and veins), and other vascular issues.
The procedure typically involves inserting a thin catheter through a small incision, usually in the groin or arm, and guiding it to the area being examined. The process is minimally invasive and generally well-tolerated by patients.
Ankle-Brachial Index or ABI Test
The ankle-brachial index (ABI) test is a straightforward and non-invasive diagnostic tool used by doctors to assess blood flow and circulation. This test primarily helps in the detection of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a condition where the arteries in the legs are narrowed or blocked, impeding blood flow.
The ABI test involves measuring blood pressure in the arms and ankles using a standard blood pressure cuff and a special ultrasound device. The test compares the blood pressure in your ankle with the blood pressure in your arm. The ratio of these two measurements is your ABI. Typically, a lower ABI indicates reduced blood flow to the legs and can be a sign of PAD.
The procedure is quick and painless, typically taking just a few minutes. Patients are usually asked to lie down and rest for a short period before the test begins to ensure accurate readings. The ABI test is highly valued for its simplicity and effectiveness in providing critical information about the health of your arteries.
In addition to identifying PAD, the ABI test can also be an indicator of the likelihood of other cardiovascular problems. It’s a useful tool in a doctor’s arsenal for assessing overall vascular health and planning appropriate treatments or interventions.
Carotid Duplex
Carotid duplex ultrasound is a sophisticated imaging procedure that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the carotid arteries in the neck. These arteries are vital as they supply blood to the brain, and their health is crucial in preventing vascular diseases, including strokes.
The procedure combines two types of ultrasound technology: Doppler and B-mode. The B-mode ultrasound provides an image of the carotid artery’s structure, while the Doppler ultrasound shows the movement of blood through the artery. Together, they enable a comprehensive assessment of blood flow and the detection of any narrowing or blockages in these arteries.
Carotid duplex ultrasound is a critical tool for the early detection of carotid artery disease, which can lead to stroke if left untreated. The test is non-invasive, painless, and does not require any special preparation. During the test, a handheld device called a transducer is gently moved over the neck area, emitting sound waves that are converted into digital images displayed on a monitor.
This procedure is particularly important for individuals at risk of stroke or those who have experienced symptoms such as dizziness, blurred vision, or weakness. By identifying potential problems in the carotid arteries, such as atherosclerosis or other forms of blockage, it guides doctors in determining the best course of treatment to maintain optimal vascular health.
64 Slice CT Angiogram
The 64 slice CT Angiogram represents a significant advancement in non-invasive vascular imaging. Utilizing the latest in computed tomography (CT) technology, this angiogram produces extremely clear and detailed images of arteries, facilitating the accurate detection of blockages without the need for catheters or invasive dyes.
This state-of-the-art technique involves the use of multiple detector rows (64 slices) in the CT scanner, allowing for the capture of high-resolution images of the heart and blood vessels within a fraction of a second. The speed and precision of the 64 slice CT Angiogram make it an invaluable diagnostic tool, especially for patients with a high risk of arterial diseases.
One of the key advantages of this method is its non-invasive nature. Unlike traditional angiography, which may require catheter insertion and contrast dyes, the 64 slice CT Angiogram reduces potential risks and discomfort associated with invasive procedures. It is particularly effective in assessing the coronary arteries, as well as arteries in the brain, neck, and other parts of the body.
The clarity of the images obtained allows physicians to evaluate arterial plaque buildup, blockages, and other abnormalities with a high degree of accuracy. This information is crucial in planning appropriate treatments for conditions like coronary artery disease, peripheral artery disease, and others.
The 64 slice CT Angiogram is a testament to the advancements in medical imaging, offering patients a safer and more comfortable experience while providing healthcare professionals with precise diagnostic information.
Duplex Ultrasound
Duplex ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging procedure that employs high-frequency sound waves to evaluate the health of arteries and veins. This advanced diagnostic tool is essential for detecting blockages or abnormalities in blood vessels, playing a crucial role in the prevention and management of vascular diseases.
The term “duplex” refers to the two modes of ultrasound used in this procedure: B-mode or brightness mode, which creates visual images of blood vessels, and Doppler mode, which assesses the speed and direction of blood flow. By combining these two ultrasound techniques, duplex ultrasound provides comprehensive information about the structure of blood vessels and the flow of blood through them.
This procedure is particularly valuable for examining blood vessels in the neck, arms, legs, and abdomen. It helps in diagnosing conditions such as peripheral arterial disease, carotid artery stenosis, deep vein thrombosis, and varicose veins. Early detection of these conditions is vital for effective treatment and prevention of complications like stroke, heart attacks, or blood clots.
Duplex ultrasound is a safe, painless, and non-invasive procedure with no radiation exposure. It typically requires no special preparation and can be performed quickly, making it a convenient option for both patients and healthcare providers.
Through duplex ultrasound, physicians can make informed decisions about treatment plans, including the need for further testing, medical intervention, or lifestyle changes to improve vascular health.
