Comprehensive Cardiothoracic & Vascular Tests and Diagnosis

At PACE Hospitals, we offer a range of advanced cardiothoracic and vascular diagnostic tests designed to detect and assess heart, lung, and vascular conditions. Our comprehensive testing includes:

Cardiac Tests (Heart-related)

These are the diagnostic procedures used to assess heart structure and function, detect abnormalities, and guide treatment decisions.

• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG): This measures the electrical activity of the heart. By placing electrodes onto the skin, the ECG records the timing and strength of electrical signals that trigger heartbeats. This test helps detect a range of heart conditions, including arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), heart attacks, and other cardiac abnormalities. It is particularly useful in diagnosing heart rhythm disorders, such as atrial fibrillation (AF) or ventricular arrhythmias, and in assessing the overall health of the heart’s electrical system.
  
• Holter Monitoring / Event Recorder: Holter monitoring involves wearing a small, portable ECG device that continuously records the heart's electrical activity for 24 to 48 hours (or longer). This test is useful for diagnosing intermittent arrhythmias that might not be seen in a normal ECG test. The event recorder works similarly but is used for a longer period and only records when the patient activates the device during symptoms, such as palpitations or dizziness. Holter monitoring can diagnose heart conditions like arrhythmias, unexplained syncope, and abnormal heart rhythms that occur occasionally, helping to track heart function over an extended period.
  
• 2D/3D Echocardiography: This uses sound waves to create images of the heart’s structure and function. In a 2D echo, a series of 2-dimensional images are taken of the heart to assess its size, shape, and movement. It helps in identifying conditions like valve disorders, heart failure, cardiomyopathy, and heart birth defects. However, 3D Echo provides more detailed, three-dimensional images of the heart, and provides accuracy in evaluating the heart's valves, chambers, and blood flow. This technique is particularly useful in assessing complex structural heart problems and congenital abnormalities.
  
• Stress Echocardiography: Stress echocardiography is a type of echocardiogram that is performed while the patient is exercising (usually on a treadmill or stationary bike) or after receiving medication that stimulates the heart, simulating the effects of exercise. The test evaluates the heart’s function and structure during stress, helping to identify areas of the heart that may not be receiving enough blood. It is particularly useful for diagnosing coronary artery blockages and assessing the heart’s ability to handle physical exertion, which may reveal undiagnosed heart conditions such as angina or heart failure.
  
• Transesophageal Echocardiography (TEE): Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) is an imaging test in which a small ultrasound probe is inserted into the esophagus to get closer and more detailed images of the heart. This is especially helpful in patients who have poor image quality on a regular echocardiogram, such as those with lung disease or obesity. TEE is used to detect heart valve disorders, congenital heart defects, blood clots, infections, and aortic diseases.
  
• Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This is a non-invasive imaging test that uses magnets and radio waves to create In-depth images of the heart. It describes the heart's structure and function, including the heart muscle, valves, and blood vessels. It is useful in determining heart function, finding scar tissue, identifying congenital cardiac abnormalities, and evaluating heart muscle illnesses such as cardiomyopathy. It can also help in assessing the extent of damage from previous heart attacks or identifying inflammation in the heart tissue, such as in myocarditis.
  
• Cardiac CT / CT Coronary Angiography: Cardiac CT is a non-invasive imaging test that provides detailed, high-resolution images of the heart and coronary arteries. CT Coronary Angiography (CTA) is a specific type of cardiac CT used to visualise the coronary arteries and detect blockages or narrowing due to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup). It is also useful for diagnosing coronary artery disease and assessing the degree of blockage. CTA is commonly used in patients with chest pain or suspected coronary artery disease to evaluate the need for further intervention.
  
• Nuclear Cardiology (SPECT / PET Myocardial Perfusion Scans): Nuclear cardiology involves using small amounts of radioactive substances to create images of the heart’s blood flow and function. Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) myocardial perfusion scans are two types of nuclear imaging techniques that evaluate the heart’s blood supply and identify areas of reduced blood flow, often due to coronary artery disease. These tests are useful for detecting reduced blood flow in patients with chest pain, assessing the effectiveness of heart treatments, or evaluating heart function after a heart attack.
  
• Conventional Coronary Angiography: This procedure is considered the gold standard for diagnosing coronary artery disease (CAD) and evaluating the presence and severity of blockages in the coronary arteries. It is typically performed when a patient has symptoms of heart disease, such as chest pain, and the results from other non-invasive tests are inconclusive. It allows doctors to see precise details of the coronary arteries, helping to guide decisions about the need for interventions.
  
• CT Aortography / CT Angiography: This is a non-invasive imaging test that uses CT technology to create detailed images of the aorta and its branches. This test is useful for diagnosing aortic diseases and blockages or narrowing in the aorta. By injecting a contrast dye, CT angiography can provide detailed images of the aorta’s size, shape, and any abnormalities. It is useful in identifying life-threatening conditions such as aortic rupture or dissection, especially in patients who have symptoms of chest or back pain.
  

Pulmonary Tests (Lung-related)

These tests are used to evaluate lung function, assess breathing capacity, and detect respiratory conditions.

• Carotid Doppler: This ultrasound test is used to evaluate blood flow in the carotid arteries. The test uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the carotid arteries, which aids in the detection of any constriction (stenosis) or blockages caused by plaque accumulation. It is commonly used to determine the risk of a stroke, as obstructions in the carotid arteries can limit blood supply to the brain. Symptoms such as dizziness, transient ischemic attacks (mini-strokes), or unexplained neurological deficits may prompt this test. 
  
• Intravascular Ultrasound (IVUS) / OCT (Optical Coherence Tomography): These are advanced imaging techniques used to visualize the inside of coronary arteries. Both methods are invasive and performed during a coronary angiography procedure. IVUS allows measurement of plaque buildup and the identification of vulnerable plaque that could lead to heart attacks. In contrast, OCT provides detailed visualization of the coronary artery's inner lining. These technologies are commonly used in diagnosing coronary artery disease, evaluating the effectiveness of stenting, and guiding interventions like angioplasty. 
  
• Chest X-Ray: A chest X-ray is a common test that helps diagnose and monitor conditions affecting the heart, lungs, and blood vessels. It provides a quick view of the heart's size and shape, the lungs' condition, and any fluid buildup in the chest cavity. Chest X-rays are used to assess conditions like pneumonia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), heart failure, and lung cancer. It can also reveal issues such as rib fractures or the presence of aortic aneurysms or dissection in some cases. 
  
• High-Resolution CT (HRCT) Chest: This is an advanced imaging test that provides very detailed images of the lung tissue. It is useful for identifying interstitial lung diseases, pulmonary fibrosis, lung infections, and early lung damage that may not be visible on a standard chest X-ray. HRCT helps in detecting patterns of lung scarring, inflammation, or structural abnormalities, making it highly valuable in evaluating chronic lung conditions.
  
• PET-CT Scan: A PET-CT scan combines metabolic imaging (PET) with detailed anatomical imaging (CT). It helps detect abnormal metabolic activity in tissues, which is particularly useful in identifying cancers such as lung cancer, assessing tumor spread (metastasis), and evaluating treatment response. It can also help differentiate between benign and malignant lesions and detect hidden infections or inflammation in the chest.
  
• Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): PFTs measure how well the lungs are working by assessing lung capacity, airflow, and gas exchange. These tests are essential for diagnosing conditions like COPD, asthma, pulmonary fibrosis, and other restrictive or obstructive lung diseases. They contribute to determining the severity of pulmonary damage and tracking disease development over time.
  
• Bronchoscopy / EBUS (Endobronchial Ultrasound): Bronchoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a bronchoscope is inserted into the airways to directly visualize the lungs and bronchial tubes. It helps detect tumors, infections, blockages, or inflammation. EBUS enhances this procedure by using ultrasound to visualise structures outside the airways, such as lymph nodes and surrounding tissues. It is particularly useful for diagnosing lung cancer, staging tumors, and obtaining tissue samples (biopsy) from difficult-to-reach areas.
  
• Thoracoscopy (VATS – Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Evaluation): Thoracoscopy, commonly performed as video-assisted thoracoscopic Surgery, is a minimally invasive procedure that allows direct visualisation of the chest cavity. It helps diagnose and evaluate conditions affecting the lungs, pleura, and chest wall, such as pleural effusion, lung nodules, infections, or tumors. It also allows for biopsy and sometimes treatment during the same procedure.
  
• Sleep Study (Polysomnography): A sleep study is a test used to monitor various body functions during sleep, including breathing patterns, oxygen levels, heart rate, and brain activity. It is mainly used to diagnose sleep-related breathing disorders such as obstructive sleep apnea, which can have significant effects on cardiovascular health. Identifying and managing sleep disorders helps reduce the risk of complications like hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
  

Vascular Tests (Blood Vessel-related Diagnostics)

These diagnostic procedures are used to assess the health and function of blood vessels, detect blockages, and evaluate blood flow throughout the body.

• Doppler Ultrasound: Doppler ultrasound assesses blood flow through blood vessels. It helps detect blockages, constriction, or abnormal blood flow in arteries and veins. This test is commonly used to ruling out conditions like DVT, peripheral arterial disease, and varicose veins.
  
• Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) Test: The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) test is a simple test used to compare blood pressure in the ankle with blood pressure in the arm. A lower-than-normal ratio indicates reduced blood flow to the legs, which is a sign of peripheral arterial disease. This test is widely used for early detection of PAD, especially in individuals with risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, or high blood pressure.
  
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): MRA is an imaging test that produces detailed images of blood vessels. It helps visualize arteries without the need for invasive procedures. MRA is helpful for finding aneurysms, narrowing of vessels, blockages, and congenital vascular issues. It is used to evaluate blood vessels in the brain, neck, chest, and limbs.
  
• Computed Tomography Angiography (CTA): This imaging technique that uses CT scans along with contrast dye to produce detailed images of blood vessels. It helps identify narrowing, blockages, aneurysms, and dissections in arteries throughout the body, including the coronary arteries and aorta. CTA is widely used for diagnosing conditions such as CAD, pulmonary embolism, and aortic disorders.
  
• Venography: Venography is used to visualize veins by injecting a contrast dye and taking X-ray images. It provides detailed information about the structure and flow within the veins, helping detect blockages, narrowing, or blood clots, especially in conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). 
  
• Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT) or Sclerotherapy: These are minimally invasive procedures used to treat varicose veins. Endovenous laser therapy uses laser energy delivered inside the vein to seal it closed, while sclerotherapy involves injecting a solution that causes the vein to collapse and eventually fade. These procedures not only treat visible varicose veins but also help confirm the affected veins responsible for symptoms.
  
• Pulse Volume Recording (PVR): This measures blood flow in the limbs by detecting changes in blood volume with each heartbeat. It uses cuffs on the arms or legs to check circulation and find areas with reduced blood flow. PVR is helpful in diagnosing peripheral arterial disease and evaluating the severity of arterial blockages when combined with other tests like the ankle-brachial index.
  

General Tests and Monitoring

These are routine diagnostic procedures used to evaluate overall health, track vital functions, and detect any underlying medical conditions.

• Cardiac Biomarkers (Troponin, Creatine phosphokinase-MB, Myoglobin): Cardiac biomarkers are blood tests that measure specific proteins released into the bloodstream when the heart muscle is damaged. Troponin is the most sensitive and specific marker used to diagnose heart muscle injury, particularly in cases of acute myocardial infarction. CK-MB and myoglobin are also produced following muscle injury, which can aid in early identification. These tests are used in emergency situations to diagnose heart attacks, estimate their severity, and track recovery or continued damage.
  
• Arterial Blood Gas (ABG) Analysis: ABG analysis is a test that measures oxygen levels, carbon dioxide levels, and the acid-base balance (pH) in the blood. It provides important information about how well the lungs and heart are functioning in maintaining proper oxygenation and ventilation. ABG is particularly useful in diagnosing respiratory failure, lung diseases, and conditions affecting oxygen delivery, such as pulmonary embolism or heart failure.
  

Move forward with confidence,

Get a free second opinion from our cardiothoracic & vascular experts

At PACE Hospitals, we are committed to providing our patients with the best possible care, and that includes offering second medical opinions with super specialists for treatment or surgery. We recommend everyone to get an expert advance medical second opinion, before taking decision for your treatment or surgery.