Diagnostics
There are many tools available to assist physicians in diagnosing stroke:
CT/CTA
A 64-slice VCT scanner, the first of its kind in Knoxville, gives
physicians a clear, detailed view of the brain instantaneously. This
allows doctors to spot a potential aneurysm or brain bleed without an
invasive procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Angiography
Fort Sanders’ 3-Tesla MRI offers physicians clearer, higher definition
views to assist in accurate diagnoses. The 3-T MRI uses radio waves and
a larger magnet to complete faster, clearer images of soft tissue.
That’s important when looking for brain abnormalities or for tracking
tumor reduction or growth within the body.
USN Carotids
Carotid artery screenings detect plaque build-up in the carotid arteries in the neck, which is a major risk factor for stroke.
EKG and Cardiac Monitoring
EKG analyzes heart rhythm to measure electrical activity. This can help in detecting a wide array of heart rhythm abnormalities.
Lipid Profile
Lipid profiles measure total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, cholesterol ratio,
triglycerides, and glucose levels. The lipid profile requires a 12-hour
fast (follow regular medication schedules and if you have diabetes,
check with your physician before fasting).
Angiography-Biplane
Biplane angiography uses micro-catheters during minimally invasive
procedures to diagnose and treat vascular diseases in the brain.
Catheters are inserted through the groin or neck and then guided to the
area of treatment. With our new, state-of-the-art bi-plane angiography
system, neurointerventional radiology procedures can be performed that
would previously require surgery and an extended hospital stay. A team
of specialized technologists and nurses work to assist the performing
radiologist with each procedure.
Other diagnostic tools include TTE and TEE and HB A1C.