Procedures
C.T. or CAT scan (computerized axial tomographic scan): Employs x-rays to create an image of the brain. This test can help determine whether there are problems such as stroke, hemorrhage, or hydrocephalus. M.R.I. (magnetic resonance imaging scanning): With this test, the patient is placed in a magnetic field that generates images of the brain. This information is very accurate and helpful in determining the presence, location, and size of a stroke, tumor, or other pathology. M.R.A. (magnetic resonance angiography): This test uses the same type of technology as an MRI in order to image the blood vessels of the brain. E.E.G. (electroencephalogram): In this procedure, small metal disks (electrodes) are placed in different locations on your scalp. The electrodes detect electrical activity known as impulses that are transcribed to paper. By looking at the characteristics of these impulses such as intensity, duration, frequency and location, this test can provide valuable information about underlying problems in the brain. Doppler ultrasound testing: This procedure uses ultrasound or high-frequency sound waves to detect blockages in the carotid artery (located on either side of your neck). A probe that is generating ultrasound waves is placed on your neck, close to the carotid artery. The ultrasound waves from the probe travels through the neck and bounces off the moving blood cells. The reflected sound wave returning to the probe at a different frequency is detected by the same probe. The change in the sound wave frequency is related to the speed of the blood cells and hence the blood flow. D.S.A. (digital subtraction angiography): In this imaging procedure, a contrast dye is injected into a vein in the arm and allowed to circulate in the bloodstream. Once the dye reaches the brain, an x-ray machine quickly takes a series of images or pictures of the head and neck. The images track the movement of the contrast dye as it proceeds through the blood vessels of the brain and neck. This imaging technique allows the doctor to identify the source of stroke. Echocardiogram: An echocardiogram is an ultrasound test used to see the function of the valves and other structures of the heart. Gel is placed on a probe and the probe is then placed on your chest over your heart and is able to record tracings of your heart and its function for a cardiologist to read after the test is completed. The blood flow may be heard during the exam as a loud pulsing sound. T.E.E. (transesphogeal echocardiogram): A TEE is an ultrasound test used to see the function of the valves and other structures of the heart. Medicine may be given to you in your IV to help you to be more relaxed during the scan. The cardiologist will spray the back of your throat with a numbing medication. They will then assist you to swallow a tube which is used to perform the ultrasound scan. Video swallow: This procedure is performed to evaluate the swallowing mechanisms in the throat of individuals who are having difficulty swallowing or those who are at risk for aspiration (food or liquid passing into the lungs). It is performed in the radiology department in conjunction with the speech pathologist. The speech pathologist and radiologist will watch you swallow various consistencies of food/fluid that contain barium. This barium helps visualize the swallowing process with the use of x-ray. Carotid endartarectomy: An operation to remove the build-up of fatty deposits or plaque in the carotid arteries. This surgery is usually recommended for people who have more sever carotid artery disease, or for people whose medical condition may be placing them at a higher risk for stroke. |
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