Serial Testing

Because cardiac and vascular conditions often do not present symptoms until later in the disease process, we recommend keeping a routine and watchful eye on your condition. Work with your cardiologist to determine your routine of scheduled serial testing of your condition.

Serial testing includes:

• Echocardiogram (ECHO): A non-invasive test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create a moving picture of the heart chambers, valves and major blood vessels.
• Computed tomography (CT scan): An imaging procedure that uses X-rays and computer technology to produce horizontal, or axial, images
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): A test that provides detailed images of the heart chambers and valves, including four-dimensional MRI
• Dual-source 64-slice computed tomography (CT) angiography: A test that divides the aorta into thousands of visualized slices producing near-perfect, three-dimensional, high-quality diagnostic images of the heart anatomy

By closely monitoring the progress of your disease, your cardiologist can assess changes and detect complications that may require surgery.