Diagnostic Testing

PET Stress(Cardiac PET/CT Myocardial Perfusion Study):

SIH is the only hospital in the region to offer Cardiac PET/CT Myocardial Perfusion studies- the most innovative procedure for cardiac diagnostic stress testing. A nuclear stress test is an imaging test that shows how blood goes to the heart at rest and during exercise. It uses a small amount of radioactive material, called a tracer or radiotracer. The substance is given by IV. An imaging machine takes pictures of how the tracer moves through the heart arteries. This helps find areas of poor blood flow or damage in the heart.

A PET stress test is an advanced procedure for cardiac diagnostic stress testing, and SIH is the only hospital in the region offering this. During this test, we use a small amount of radioactive material (tracer) given through an IV. An imaging machine then takes pictures of how this tracer moves through the heart arteries. By doing this, we can find areas of poor blood flow or damage in the heart, both at rest and during exercise. It's a safe and effective way to diagnose heart conditions.

Stress Testing (Exercise Test):

A stress test shows how well your heart works during physical activity. It's also known as a stress exercise test. During the test, you may walk on a treadmill or ride a stationary bike, while a healthcare provider monitors your heart rhythm, blood pressure, and breathing.

If you can't exercise, we can give you medicine that mimics the effects of exercise. This test helps us identify any problems with blood flow within the heart, and it's especially recommended if you have symptoms of coronary artery disease or an irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia).

Echocardiogram:

An echocardiogram is a common and non-invasive test that uses sound waves to create pictures of your heart. It helps us visualize blood flow through the heart and assess the condition of heart valves. By examining these pictures, we can detect heart diseases and other conditions related to the heart.

Carotid Ultrasound:

Carotid ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure that uses sound waves to examine the blood flow through the carotid arteries, located on each side of your neck. These arteries supply blood from the heart to the brain. This test helps us check for any blockages or narrowing in these arteries, which could increase the risk of stroke. Based on the results, we can determine suitable treatments to lower your stroke risk.

Peripheral Ultrasound:

This test uses sound waves to assess how blood moves through your blood vessels. We use a special type of ultrasound called Doppler ultrasound to identify any blocked or narrowed arteries.

CT Coronary Angiogram:

A CT coronary angiogram is an imaging test that allows us to look at the arteries supplying blood to your heart. It involves using a powerful X-ray machine to produce detailed images of your heart and its blood vessels. This test is helpful in diagnosing various heart conditions.

By understanding these cardiac imaging tests, you and your healthcare provider can work together to ensure the best care for your heart health.

Remember, early detection and appropriate treatments can lead to better outcomes and a healthier heart.