Diagnostic Techniques 

As an international leader in heart care, the Heart & Vascular Institute - Southwest provides diagnostic techniques and technologies that set the standard for reliability, accuracy and effectiveness, including:

Cardiovascular magnetic resonance (MR) technology. We offer superior, low-risk MR technologies that do not require radiation or catheters and provide images showing exactly how the heart is functioning.

Unique imaging capabilities. These include a special
X-ray system that allows three-dimensional viewing of the affected area, offering a better alternative for detecting aneurysms.

Specialized diagnostic options. We can diagnose aneurysms and vessel abnormalities without injecting a contrast agent, a process that is especially beneficial to patients with kidney disease.

Nuclear cardiology and echocardiography laboratories. Memorial Hermann uses sophisticated equipment to provide early, non-invasive, highly accurate detection of heart problems. It is especially beneficial to patients who have passed a stress test but are concerned because they have a family history of heart disease.

Holter monitoring. A technology that allows for continuous recording of the heart’s electrical activity while you go about your daily activities. This technology helps physicians diagnose abnormal heart rhythms and develop the most effective treatment plan.

64-slice CT Angiography 

Memorial Hermann Heart & Vascular Institute-Southwest now offers the new 64-slice cardiac CT system that helps diagnose cardiovascular disease without invasive procedures. This leading-edge technology provides cardiologists with highly detailed views of the heart and arteries.

The introduction of 64-slice cardiac CT allows nearly all patients to be scanned with very high resolution. It provides the ability to capture an image of the whole heart in just 5 heartbeats (5-13 seconds), so sick or elderly patients have to hold their breath less time.

Watch the KHOU Breakthrough Segment,
Heart Disease, listed under 2006 Breakthroughs.

• Learn more about the CT process.
• Introducing the 64 Slice CT Angiography

To schedule a heart scan, call 713-222-CARE.

Patient Benefits

• Noninvasive studies
• Faster patient exams – about 40 minutes from check-in to check-out
• Less time needed for breath holds
• Easier access/wheelchair access to patient table

Indications

• Screening for coronary artery disease
• Screening for carotid artery stenosis
• Diagnosis of chest pain symptoms
• Screening for peripheral artery disease
• Screening for abdominal aortic aneurism
• Follow-up of established coronary artery disease

Cardiovascular Procedures

• Cardiac CT and CT coronary angiography
• Coronary artery calcium scores
• Peripheral angiogram: carotid arteries, thoracic aorta, abdominal aorta, lower extremities

Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories 

Cardiac catheterization laboratories give patients access to leading-edge treatments and procedures. Our labs set a standard for excellence in invasive cardiology and include:

• Advanced digital imaging technologies
    
• 3-D rotational angiography
    
• Bolus Chase peripheral angiography which provides more precise, detailed images of the lower extremities
     
• Electrophysiology, a diagnostic procedure designed to examine the electrical function of the heart that is the most accurate, dependable technology for evaluating heart rhythm
     
• Digital storage of images for fast, easy viewing by family members and physicians from the physician's offices.

Additionally, a pre-procedure and recovery unit next to the labs allows patients to be admitted directly to the lab, have their procedure, and be discharged from the same area. If patients require an overnight stay, we have dedicated telemetry and critical care units that specialize in cardiac care.