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Hunterdon Cardiovascular Health
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Our physicians review and provide a written interpretation of each diagnostic study mentioned below:
- Echocardiogram with Doppler and Color Flow
- Echocardiogram with Color
- Echocardiogram
- Stress Echocardiogram
- Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram
- Contrast Echocardiogram
- Holter Monitor
Carotid Doppler Test
A carotid doppler is a non-invasive ultrasound procedure performed by a cardiac sonographer. The sonographer scans each side of the neck using an ultrasound probe and gel to obtain images of the carotid arteries. This test is used to determine if there is any plaque or blockage of the carotid arteries.
The images are recorded on videotape for interpretation and report by the Cardiologist. The test is approximately 30 minutes in duration. There is no preparation required for this exam.
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a non-invasive, diagnostic cardiac exam, which uses ultrasound to show the anatomical structures of the heart. The test enables the Cardiologist to assess the overall function of the heart and to identify cardiac abnormalities.
A cardiac sonographer performs the test as the patient lies still on his/her left side for approximately 30 minutes. Gel is applied to a transducer, which is then placed on the patient's chest to obtain the images. The images are recorded on videotape for interpretation and report by the Cardiologist.
Unlike other ultrasound exams, there are no requirements prior to testing.
24 Hour Holter Monitor
A Holter Monitor records your heart rhythm during daily activities for 24 hours. This test is ordered to help detect cardiac arrhythmias (irregular heart beats) to help evaluate chest pain and to help discover the cause of certain symptoms such as dizziness, fainting and shortness of breath. Our newest recorders weigh only 2 ounces and are so small that they are completely unnoticeable when attached to the patient with only four electrodes. The patient will be asked to keep a diary of activities and symptoms in order to correlate any abnormal heart rhythms during the 24 hour period.
Event Recorder
An Event Recorder is a non-invasive, portable method for diagnosing cardiac arrhythmias. The unit allows the patient to record an electrocardiogram at the onset of symptoms such as chest pain, palpitations, shortness of breath and dizziness. With the simple press of a button, the device makes it possible to capture and record the event when it happens. The patient then transmits the vital information over the telephone to the interpreting facility. The device is small and is attached to the patient with lead wires and three disposable electrodes. The unit is usually worn for a period of thirty days.
Exercise Stress Test
The exercise stress test evaluates cardiovascular response to physical stress. This test provides information on myocardial response to increased oxygen demands and coronary blood flow.
The patient will walk on a treadmill which will gradually increase in speed and incline while your heart rate and blood pressure are monitored. The goal is to reach the target heart rate.
Patient dresses comfortably in loose clothing and sneakers. Food and smoking should be avoided 2-3 hours before the test. Medications should be taken as usual, unless instructed otherwise by your physician.
Nuclear Stress Test
A nuclear stress test is a diagnostic test used to determine if the heart muscle is getting the blood supply it needs.
A nurse will call you prior to the day of the test and give you complete instructions. You may only have juice or water on the morning of the test. No caffeine for 24 hours prior to the test. A light lunch is allowed on the day of the test. Sneakers or comfortable walking shoes and loose, comfortable clothing are advisable.
A nuclear stress test consists of two parts:
- When you arrive a small intravenous catheter will be inserted in your arm or hand. A radiopharmaceutical will be injected through the catheter and resting images of your heart will be acquired. You will leave the office and be asked to return later.
- When you return you will walk on a treadmill which will increase in speed and incline as tolerated. Your electrocardiogram and blood pressure will be monitored throughout the test. You will exercise to a predetermined heart rate. When you reach this rate, or if you experience chest pain, or you are almost to the point that you are unable to continue due to fatigue, the radiopharmaceutical will be administered through the intravenous line and you will be asked to continue exercising one minute longer. To complete the study, post stress images will be acquired.
If your insurance is an HMO plan, you must bring in a referral specifically for your test from your primary care physician or the study cannot be performed.
Our Nuclear and Echo laboratories are accredited by the ICANL and the ICAEL.
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Directions to Our Clinton Office
Take Route 31 North to Clinton. Cross over I-78 and continue on 31 North for 1 mile. The Clinton Health Campus is on the right.
From East via I-78 West
Take exit 17. Merge onto Route 31 North. Proceed 1 mile and the Clinton Health Campus is on the right.
From West via I-78 East
Take exit 16 or Route 31 North. Merge briefly onto Old Route 22, continue to Route 626. Turn left onto 626 then bear left onto 31 North for 1 mile. The Clinton Health Campus is on the right.
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