Cardiac Diagnostics and Imaging

Why Would You Need Cardiac Diagnostic & Imaging?

These tests are used to evaluate a variety of heart conditions, including:

• Chest pain or suspected coronary artery disease
• Heart valve problems: stenosis, regurgitation, or congenital defects
• Abnormal heart rhythms: arrhythmias or palpitations
• Heart failure or cardiomyopathy: to check pumping efficiency
• Monitoring after interventions: stents, valve repair, or surgery

Purpose: Early detection and accurate diagnosis lead to better outcomes and can guide treatment, surgery, or lifestyle changes.

When is Cardiac Imaging Needed?

• Routine Screening: for high-risk patients or follow-up on known conditions
• Symptom Evaluation: chest pain, shortness of breath, palpitations, or fainting
• Pre-Surgical Assessment: before valve repair, bypass surgery, or structural interventions
• Post-Procedure Monitoring: after stents, ablations, or valve surgery

Purpose: Timely imaging ensures doctors have the right information to act quickly and safely.

How Does Cardiac Diagnostic & Imaging Work?

1. Preparation
   1. Instructions depend on the test: fasting, avoiding caffeine, or stopping certain medications
   2. IV line may be needed for contrast in CT or MRI scans
2. The Test
   1. EKG: painless electrodes on the chest
   2. Echo: handheld ultrasound device over the chest
   3. Stress test: walking on a treadmill or medication-induced stress
   4. CT/MRI: lie still while images are taken, sometimes with contrast dye
   5. Holter/Event Monitor: wear a small device to track heart rhythm
3. Results & Follow-Up
   1. Cardiologist reviews images and test data
   2. Findings are discussed with you and your primary provider
   3. Guides treatment, medication, or procedure decisions

Purpose: Tests are safe, often painless, and give critical information about your heart health.

What to Expect Emotionally

Heart tests can feel stressful, but at ARMC:

• Clear guidance: you’ll know what to expect before, during, and after the test
• Compassionate support: staff answer questions and ensure comfort
• Family-friendly environment: loved ones can support you when appropriate
• Safe procedures: performed with the latest technology and trained professionals

Our cardiac imaging team provides the answers you need in a safe, supportive, and patient-centered environment.

Learn More / Next Steps

• Ask your primary care provider or cardiologist for a referral for cardiac imaging
• Explore additional resources on heart testing, monitoring, and recovery
• Combine imaging results with other ARMC heart services like Cath Lab, EP Lab, or CT Surgery for complete care.