The first step in caring for heart and vascular conditions is accurately diagnosing them. At HCA Virginia, we use a full range of advanced diagnostic tools and the latest technologies to pinpoint the extent and cause of the problem - quickly and accurately.
Your First Choice for Heart & Vascular Diagnosis
When a heart attack is suspected, fast, precise diagnosis is critical. All HCA Virginia hospitals are accredited Chest Pain Centers, signifying the highest level of care from the onset of symptoms through diagnosis and treatment.
We apply this same level of care to all our diagnostic services, emphasizing the importance of early detection.
Our Cardiovascular Diagnostic Services
Our diagnostic services include:
- Electrocardiography (EKG) - measures the electrical activity of the heart
- Echocardiography (ECHO) - noninvasive technique using ultrasound imaging to detect weaknesses in the heart's rhythm and function
- Stress testing - monitors and measures heart and blood vessels response to exertion
- Electrophysiology - studies the heart's electrical system to diagnose and treat abnormal heart rhythms
- Diagnostic catheterization - uses a small catheter tube and X-rays to assess the heart and blood supply
- Calcium Scoring - uses special X-rays to detect calcified plaque build-up in the heart that can lead to heart attack
- Angiography - X-rays the inside of vessels surrounding the heart. Watch this procedure.
- Computerized tomography angiogram (CTA) - adds magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) when a closer look is needed
- Vascular and intravascular ultrasound (Doppler Study) - evaluates and identifies deep vein thrombosis and blockages in the carotid artery before they lead to stroke
- Intracardiac ultrasound - catheter-based diagnostic test to take images of the interior structure of the heart and valves
- Nuclear imaging - uses small amounts of radioactive material to assess blood flow and assess other cardiac activity
- Tilt testing - helps determine the cause of fainting (syncope)
- Holter monitoring - records electrical signals from the heart through a series of electrodes attached to the chest