Diagnostics in our office

We perform several diagnostic tests in our office with quality care and patient convenience in mind. The available tests include:

Pulmonary Function Test
Bone Densitometry (DEXA Scans)

Vascular Studies

Ultrasounds

Echocardiogram

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) Testing

Pulmonary Function Test

Pulmonary Function TestA Pulmonary Function Test measures air volume and air flow to the lungs. This test is an important tool in the diagnosis and treatment of respiratory diseases, including asthma, bronchitis, and emphysema.

Additionally, a Pulmonary Function Test can help determine the cause of shortness of breath as well as gauge the efficacy of disease treatment. Current and former smokers, asthma patients, patients with cystic fibrosis, neuromuscular disorders, AIDS, or congestive heart failure can benefit from the assessments of a Pulmonary Function Test.

A Pulmonary Function Test is performed with a spirometer. The patient breathes into a mouthpiece that is connected to the spirometer; the instrument records both the amount and rate of air that is exhaled and inhaled over a specified time.

Bone Densitometry (DEXA Scans)

Bone DensityDEXA Scans safely, accurately, and painlessly measure bone mineral density. This test is most often ordered to assist in the diagnosis of osteoporosis, as well as track the effects of treatments for osteoporosis and other conditions which cause bone loss.

Through the gradual loss of calcium, osteoporosis causes the bones to become thinner, increasingly fragile, and more susceptible to fractures. Osteoporotic bones appear thin and porous, much like a hardened sponge.

A DEXA Scan is most frequently performed on the hips and lower spine. The patient lies on a padded table while a detector slowly passes over the areas of concern, producing images on a computer screen.

Vascular Studies

Vascular StudiesVascular studies involve non-invasive ultrasonic testing techniques to assess the blood flow in arteries and veins. These tests can be used to detect abnormal blood flow within a vessel – a possible indication of a blood clot, plaque, or inflammation. Vascular studies are normally ordered if a patient presents signs or symptoms of decreased blood flow in the arteries and/or veins of the neck or extremities. Additionally, vascular studies allow your physician to evaluate any procedures which were performed to restore blood flow to an area.

Ultrasounds

Ultrasounds are non-invasive tests which use sound waves to create visual images of internal organs. Sound waves are sent through body tissues with a device called a transducer. A sonographer places the transducer directly on top of the skin, which has a gel applied to the surface. Images of the internal organ(s) are produced immediately on a computer monitor. Ultrasound testing is generally painless and involves no radiation.

Our Diagnostic Center can provide patients ultrasound testing of the liver, bladder, gallbladder, pancreas, aorta, thyroid, kidneys, spleen, and testicles, as well as transabdominal and transvaginal images.

Ultrasound Test Preparations

Echocardiogram

An echocardiogram, or ultrasound of the heart, is a useful and noninvasive test to study the heart's anatomy. The echo is an important component in the detection of problems with heart valves, the evaluation of congenital heart disease, as well as the description of the general function of the heart muscle.

The certified Echocardiogram Technician places a device called a transducer on the chest, above the heart. The transducer emits and receives waves that bounce off the heart. These waves are sent to a computer which produces immediate images of the heart.

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR) Testing

Metabolic Testing is a simple, ten-minute breath test. During the test, the air you breathe out is analyzed to determine exactly how much oxygen your body consumed. This is how your metabolic rate is measured.

Once completed, your metabolic rate will be used to calculate your Target Caloric Zones. These Zones provide powerful information to help you lose weight. This is also a helpful test for those who have lost weight and are learning to adjust to their new caloric needs.

BMR Test Preparations