Echocardiography Purpose To diagnose and evaluate valvular abnormalities To measure and evaluate the size of the heart’s chambers and valves To help diagnose cardiomyopathies and atrial tumors To evaluate cardiac…

Computed tomography Purpose To produce cross-sectional images of various layers of tissue generating images not readily seen on standard X-rays Patient preparation Make sure that the consent form is signed…

Cardiac catheterization Purpose To evaluate valvular insufficiency or stenosis, septal defects, congenital anomalies, myocardial function, myocardial blood supply, and cardiac wall motion To aid in diagnosing left ventricular enlargement, aortic…

Bronchoscopy Purpose To allow visual examination of tumors, obstructions, secretions, or foreign bodies in the tracheobronchial tree To diagnose bronchogenic carcinoma, tuberculosis, interstitial pulmonary disease, and fungal or parasitic pulmonary…

Bone marrow aspiration and biopsy Purpose To diagnose thrombocytopenia, leukemias, granulomas, anemias, and primary and metastatic tumors To determine causes of infection To help stage diseases such as with Hodgkin’s…

Arthrography Purpose To outline joint contour and soft-tissue structures To evaluate persistent unexplained joint discomfort or pain To identify acute or chronic abnormalities of the joint capsule or supporting ligaments…

Arteriogram Purpose To radiographically examine the target circulation (kidneys, heart, lungs) after injection of a radiopaque contrast medium into an artery (also called angiogram) To repair certain blood vessels (can…

Arterial blood gas analysis Purpose To evaluate the efficiency of pulmonary gas exchange To assess the integrity of the ventilatory control system To determine the acid-base level of the blood…

Urine collection Description Allows screening for urinary tract infection and renal disorders, evaluation of treatment, and detection of systemic and metabolic disorders Provides a simple, effective alternative by offering minimal…