Enhancements to Cardiac Care Program

We have expanded diagnostic services to perform Coronary Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA) at SAH.

CCTA is a coronary CT scan that helps to identify plaque or blockages or narrowing of the coronary arteries. It also helps to detect abnormalities that can affect blood flow to the heart and identify patients at risk for cardiovascular events.

Patients undergoing a CCTA study are injected with a contrast (dye) that makes blockages and other abnormalities more visible. Small electrodes are placed on the chest connected to an electrocardiograph (ECG) monitor, which records the heart’s electric signal at rest. To minimize motion of the heart during the CT scan, medications to lower the heart rate may be given. The patient may also be asked to take Nitroglycerin just prior to scanning to make the arteries more visible.

From the patient perspective, this is a relatively easy and fast test. “We have provided training and education for the diagnostic imaging team and we are slowly increasing our patient volume,” says Franci Rogers, Manager of Diagnostic Imaging and Cardiac Combine.

Candidates for a CCTA study are those who have intermediate risk profiles for coronary artery disease but do not have typical symptoms. Currently referrals will come from Dr. Rami Abazid after consultation. 

“This is great news for patients and our community,” says Dr. Rami Abazid, Cardiologist. “The test only takes about 20 minutes and it is relatively painless, non-invasive, can be performed on an outpatient basis. It delivers detailed, accurate results to help guide timely and effective treatment decisions.”

SAH’s Diagnostic Imaging Department has also recently added a Nuclear Medicine, PYP scan, used to diagnose a rare condition called cardiac amyloidosis. In addition, SAH has purchased new equipment that simplifies and streamlines agitated saline contrast Echocardiograms “bubble studies”, a noninvasive test that helps to diagnose heart abnormalities.   have