:: diagnostic and testing services ::

Getting to the bottom of a health problem is the first step in treating it. St. Luke's Hospital offers a variety of comprehensive diagnostic services, including the most advanced techniques in radiology, pulmonary function, neurology, cardiology and pathology.

The Heart Center at St. Luke's Hospital, the area's newest comprehensive cardiac treatment center, offers high- and low-risk cardiac catheterizations and is located just down the hallway from Emergency Services for expedient treatment. More basic cardiac tests, such as EKGs and stress tests, also are available.

The Radiology department offers state-of-the-art magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) imaging, as well as two computed tomography (CT) scanners, ultrasound and nuclear imaging. Stereotactic mammographic biopsy, an advanced yet minimally invasive diagnostic test for breast cancer, also is performed.

St. Luke's Hospital was among the first hospitals in the country to utilize the Bravo pH monitoring system, a diagnostic test for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Traditional tests included passing a catheter through the nasal passage and into the esophagus. The catheter would have to stay in place for at least 24 hours to collect pertinent pH data. The Bravo pH system features implantation of a small capsule that temporarily attaches to the patient's esophagus. The capsule transmits data through a radiotelemetry "pager" worn by the patient, and is passed through the body after its use. The patient continues daily activities unencumbered by uncomfortable tubing.

The St. Luke's Sleep Disorders Center, an accredited member center of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, is one of the area's newest sleep monitoring services. The Center monitors patients with suspected sleep disorders, including sleep apnea, narcolepsy and restless leg syndrome, for diagnosis.