Diagnostic Care Center–Carbon

A bone density test is used to measure bone mineral content and density. It may be done using X-rays, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA or DXA), or a special computed tomography (CT) scan that uses computer software to determine bone density of the hip or spine.

An echocardiogram is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) procedure used to assess the heart's function and structures. During the procedure, a transducer (like a microphone) sends out ultrasonic sound waves at a frequency too high to be heard. When the transducer is placed on the chest at certain locations and angles, the ultrasonic sound waves move through the skin and other body tissues to the heart and blood vessel tissues, where the waves bounce or "echo" off of the structures. These sound waves are sent to a computer that can create moving images of the heart walls, blood vessels and valves.

An electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG) is one of the simplest and fastest tests used to evaluate the heart. Electrodes (small, plastic patches) are placed at certain locations on the chest, arms and legs. When the electrodes are connected to the electrocardiogram machine by wires, the electrical activity of your heart is measured, interpreted and printed out for the doctor's information and further interpretation.

An exercise stress test is done to assess the heart's response to stress or exercise. In this test, the ECG is recorded while you are exercising on a treadmill or stationary bike. An ECG tracing will be taken at certain points during the test to compare the effects of increasing stress on the heart.

The Holter monitor is a type of portable electrocardiogram (ECG). It records the electrical activity of the heart continuously over 24 hours or longer while you are away from the doctor's office.

Laboratory tests use blood, urine or other samples to understand what is happening inside your body or if treatments that have been prescribed to you are working. Tests can check for blood glucose (sugar) levels, liver or kidney function, hormone function, the flu and more. Lab tests are ordered by your physician or advanced practice clinician when needed.

Myocardial perfusion is an imaging test. It's also called a nuclear stress test. It is done to show how well blood flows through the heart muscle. It also shows how well the heart muscle is pumping. This test may be done during rest and while you exercise.

Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) are noninvasive tests that show how well the lungs are working. The tests measure lung volume, capacity, rates of flow, and gas exchange. This information can help your healthcare provider diagnose and decide the treatment of certain lung disorders.

An echocardiogram is a noninvasive (the skin is not pierced) test used to see how well the heart is working. An exercise echocardiogram is done to assess the heart's response to stress or exercise and compare the results to when the heart is at rest.