Examining Your Heart

Equipped with a state-of-the-art diagnostic Cardiac Catheterization Lab, the Gordon Hospital Radiology Department uses the latest technology and advanced clinical procedures to diagnose blockages and the narrowing of arteries; evaluate the pumping ability of the heart and the function of heart valves; and measure internal pressures within the heart. Coronary angiogram or cardiac catheterization is an X-ray test used to determine the condition of the heart and the coronary arteries. A cardiologist performs this test using a small catheter, which is inserted through an artery and is advanced through the blood vessels and into the heart. A dye is then injected through the catheter to help the cardiologist visualize a moving picture of blood flow through the coronary arteries while taking X-rays. This procedure enables physicians to find possible blockages from blood clots or plaque buildup, which can cause a heart attack. Results from cardiac catheterization help cardiologists determine whether treatment with bypass surgery or another type of intervention is necessary.

Leading-Edge Care

Gordon Hospital is the first hospital in North Georgia to offer patients access to this

state-of-the-art equipment, a Siemens Artis Zee®, which offers an array of benefits for patients as well as physicians. The advanced image quality for cardiac procedures allows physicians to get a faster, clearer picture than ever before so they can diagnose and treat their patients promptly with greater confidence. In addition, the patient's experience during the procedure is more comfortable because the X-ray equipment features a Tempur-Pedic® mattress top comparable to what you might find in a five-star hotel with no table-weight limitations.

Less Radiation

While older equipment unnecessarily exposed patients to radiation during X-ray tests, this equipment is radiation-free during positioning. One of the goals of this advanced technology is to continue to limit the necessary dose of X-ray exposure. Technology at Gordon Hospital has the lowest dose of X-ray exposure in North Georgia, which proves once again that Gordon Hospital puts patients first and ensures the  highest level of safety.

Ready for the Future

As the technology for cardiac care continues to advance, the equipment within Gordon’s Cath Lab can easily be updated to meet the needs of patients. The system's modular design makes upgrades easy and affordable. This means that Gordon Hospital can remain on the cutting edge of the technology curve due to the expansive upgrade path of this system. The community we serve can be confident in our commitment to remain on the forefront of cardiac medicine.

Apart from the Rest

Unlike at other facilities where patients wait their turn in cubicles divided only by curtains, patients waiting to undergo a diagnostic cardiac catheterization at Gordon Hospital  -- as well as their families -- wait comfortably in private rooms decorated with an “at-home atmosphere” that promotes comfort and healing. Reminiscent of a nice hotel, the rooms hardly resemble the typical sterile white hospital environment. However, all the expected hospital technology exists to care for patients. Behind beautiful cherry wood cabinets in each room is high-tech monitoring equipment to make sure patients are in good health at all times.

Experienced Cardiologists

All cardiologists at Gordon Hospital are board-certified. That distinction offers you a peace of mind knowing that your cardiologist has the knowledge, experience, and skills necessary to provide you with the highest quality cardiac healthcare available. In addition, your cardiologist will report your diagnostic cardiac catheterization results directly to your referring physician so that there is no delay in your care.

Ask for a Referral

If your doctor says that you need to undergo a diagnostic cardiac catheterization, ask for a referral to Gordon Hospital’s cath lab, home of the latest imaging technology and, most importantly, a Christ-centered environment where patients always come first.