Serving Greenfield and Hancock County, Hancock Regional’s Cardiovascular Services offers state-of-the-art technology for precise diagnosis and identification of the most appropriate treatment for cardiovascular problems. Our team of  specialists performs high-quality cardiovascular procedures in a patient-focused environment.

According to the American Heart Association, there are 70,100,000 Americans who have one or more types of cardiovascular disease.

Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) is narrowing of the coronary arteries typically resulting from arteriosclerosis (the deposit of fatty substances in the arteries). Risk factors include: family history of CAD, smoking, high cholesterol, diet high in saturated fats, high blood pressure, overweight, stress and a sedentary lifestyle.

Valvular disorder occurs when the valve separating each heart chamber does not function properly. For example, stenosis is when the valve or valves do not open enough to allow enough blood to flow through. Insufficiency or regurgitation is when the valve or valves do not close properly and allow blood to leak through. Prolapse affects the mitral valve which does not close properly and leads to a small leak.

The new Philips Allura Xper FD10 Cardiac Cath unit equipped with state-of-the-art digital imaging technology, a flatpanel detector, which allows for a more compact design, enhanced image quality, and image resolution. In addition, the new Philips iE echocardiography system provides a color ultrasound of the heart and offers extraordinary levels of clinical imaging performance for quicker, more accurate diagnoses and superb, live 3D image quality.

The new Cardiac Outpatient Recover and Procedure unit offers eight private rooms and is designed for pre- and postcardiac catheterization and/or interventional radiology patients and outpatient procedures. All rooms are equipped with bedside documentation and cardiac monitoring systems that can be viewed at the central nursing stations.

The new digital picture archive communication system (PACS) stores an unlimited amount of images online. Remote access is expanded throughout the hospital and at the physician’s home or offi ce through a secure Internet connection. This improves communication and provides immediate access to critical clinical information.

A helipad is easily accessible for rapid transport of patients should the need arise. Although not required, the helipad has been certified by the Federal Aviation Administration.

Cardiovascular Services offers these diagnostic procedures:

• Cardiac Catheterization - Procedure in which contrast dye is injected into the coronary arteries and a digital picture is taken. It allows visualization of any narrowing or blockage of the coronary arteries.

• Cardiac Stress Testing - Graded exercise stress testing using a treadmill, bicycle or medication to physically stress the heart.

• Nuclear Testing - Cardiolite stress testing is a type of nuclear myocardial perfusion (blood flow) imaging test. This test shows how well the blood flows to the heart muscle. It is done in conjunction with either an exercise stress test on a treadmill or a chemically-induced type of stress for patients unable to run the treadmill.

• Echocardiogram - Ultrasounds of the heart and heart valves. It provides information about the heart muscle and how it pumps and also if the heart valves are working properly.

• Electrocardiography - Electrical tracing (EKG) of the heartbeat and rhythm aids in diagnosing conditions that interfere with normal electrophysical functions of the heart. Holter or event monitoring makes a graphic record of the electric currents generated by the heart. It is done while the person is walking or moving around, wearing a small recorder.

• Cardiac Rehabilitation - This program is designed to help patients with heart disease recover faster and return to full and productive lives following a cardiac event or surgery. Cardiac Rehab is individually tailored to meet the needs of each patient and monitored by our highly trained, caring staff.

For more information about cardiovascular services at Hancock Regional, please call 317-468-4446.