The unit for non-invasive cardiology in the Kaplan Medical Center performs over 10,000 procedures annually. About 80% of these procedures are echocardiography, conducted through the thorax. In addition, we perform Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE), stress echocardiography, Dobutamine Stress Echocardiogram (DSE) and stress tests. Echocardiography is also conducted in the operating and the catheterization rooms.
The unit has a skilled and proficient staff of doctors and technicians, and an advanced echo equipment providing answers to any cardiac problem. The tests are designated to diagnose a wide variety of cardiac and arterial pathologies such as valve disease, systolic and diastolic disturbance in the heart muscle function, inter-cardiac infections, fluid in the pericardial space, aortic illnesses and congenital heart defects.
The unit staff is partner in innovative procedures including surgical and catheterized valve replacement, surgical fixing of valves and catheterization, closing the ear of the left ventricle to prevent clots, closing congenital and acquired passageways between the ventricles and chambers and complex extractions of pacemakers’ electrodes.
The tests are done in patients admitted to various units in the hospital and in ambulatory patients from various areas and HMOs.
The unit constantly conducts medical research and it is partner in the development of innovative medical technologies.
The tests conducted in the unit:
- Echocardiography through the thorax: a safe diagnostic test which uses soundwaves to create a real-time image of the heart. The test includes 2D and 3D imaging.
- Stress echocardiography or medically induced stress echocardiography: The test integrates echocardiography with a stress test on a track or using a bicycle, and in other cases using a drug (Dobutamine) simulating stress. The test allows information about the blood flow to the various parts of the heart muscle, and the function of the valves during stress. We compare the findings at rest with the findings under stress.
- Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE): The test allows imaging the heart from a short distance in a good quality, while enabling the examination of various details more specifically. This test also includes 2D and 3D evaluations.
- Stress test: Is conducted by walking on a track. A doctor and a technician monitor the ECG records, the blood pressure response and the patient’s general feeling.
Some of the tests require preparation and therefore you should contact the unit secretary for guidelines.
