INVASIVE TESTING - CARDIAC CATHETERIZATION

What is Cardiac Catheterization?

Cardiac catheterization is a non-surgical procedure that can be done on an outpatient basis. The procedure allows physicians to find out how well the heart and coronary arteries are working. To perform this procedure, a flexible tube called a catheter is inserted through a blood vessel and guided gently toward your heart. Coronary arteries, heart valves and chambers are then evaluated. Other blood vessels can also be assessed if necessary.

Why are Cardiac procedures done?

You may have had symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pressure or pain, dizziness, palpitations, high blood pressure, passing out or other Cardio-Vascular symptoms. Your physician may have found signs or symptoms, which a Catheterization may identify more precisely.

NON-INVASIVE CARDIO-VASCULAR TESTING

NON-INVASIVE CARDIO-VASCULAR testing (requires no radiation and on occasion an I.V. for pharmacological testing) These procedures require approximately an hour to an hour and 30 minutes. No preparation is necessary and there are no side effects.

Cardiac testing:

Cardiac ultrasound • Cardiac Stress Testing • 24-hour Holter recording • Exercise Echocardiograms , and more.

Vascular testing:

Cerebral Vascular Evaluation • Peripheral Venous Evaluation • Peripheral Arterial Evaluation , and more.

The Cardio-Vascular Department offers procedures done in an efficient, timely and professional manner with services offering excellent technical equipment and clinical staff to achieve optimal results. Testing in the Cardio-Vascular Department is scheduled by appointment Monday through Friday through the Cardio-vascular Secretary at (805) 434-4530 or by Fax at (805) 434-4696.