6th Annual Northern Arizona Cardio Conference for Primary Care. “Structural Valve Therapies: TMVR, The Next Frontier” October 6-7, 2017. Flagstaff, AZ
Smoking Cessation
Facing the possibility of changing one's lifestyle can be overwhelming. Some modifications, such as changes to diet and smoking cessation, will take place immediately. Others may be more gradual, such as building up to and maintaining an exercise program, or incorporating long-term stress management.
Electrocardiogram
❏ Electrocardiogram – “EKG” – measures the electrical activity of the heart. Electrodes (stickers) will be placed at specific locations on your body (chest, arms and legs). A graphic representation (tracing) will be generated which can indicate one or more heart-related conditions (conduction disorders, arrhythmias, valve disease, etc). There is no preparation for this test. This test usually is complete in under an hour.
❏ Carotid Doppler/Ultrasound Study – “Carotids” - The major goal of carotid ultrasound is to screen patients for blockage or narrowing of their carotid arteries, which if present may increase their risk of having a stroke. For this test, warm water-based gel will be applied on your neck and then a transducer (ultrasound probe) will be firmly pressed against your skin, moving it back and forth over the area of interest until the desired images are captured. There is usually no discomfort from pressure. There is no preparation for this test. This test usually takes 30 minutes.
MRI
❏ Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging – “MRI” – This test provides detailed pictures of the heart. It also reveals how well the heart is functioning and the overall size and shape of the left ventricle (pumping chamber of the heart). In addition, it allows the visualization of abnormal tissue in the heart muscle. Because they interfere with the magnetic field of the MRI unit, metal and electronic objects are not allowed in the exam room. You will need to complete a questionnaire prior to your appointment - be certain to tell your surgeon if you have a history of metal implants, shrapnel and/or claustrophobia.
X-Rays
Computed Tomography
❏ Computed Tomography Scan – “CT” – This test that looks at the aorta (largest blood vessel in the body), lungs and other organs. It will identify if an aneurysm is present or other issues that may need to be addressed before or at the time of surgery. If your surgery is a re-operation, it will allow the surgeon to see how safely they can enter the chest cavity. You will have an IV placed prior to the procedure as IV contrast dye is administered for this test. You cannot eat 6 hours prior or drink 2 hours prior to this procedure. This test will take one hour to complete.
Dr. Amabile has a special interest in the treatment of complex aortic disease and the use of mechanical assist devices for heart failure. He is also specialty trained in the TAVR (Transcatheter Aortic Valve Replacement) procedure. He is certified by the American Board of Thoracic Surgery, and provides a wide array of cardiac specific surgical services including mechanical circulatory assist of failing hearts and the treatment of complex aortic disease.
Wound Care
As you recover, you may find it valuable to engage the services of a home care nurse or aide. Not only can these trained professionals assist with personal care (hygiene, wound care, etc.), they can also assist with pain management, driving, errands, etc.
Vascular Surgery
As recommended by the CDC, we are working to alert anyone who underwent a surgical procedure with cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB), including cardiac surgery, general thoracic surgery, or vascular surgery from June 2011 to August 2016.
Instructions for exercise will typically be provided by physical therapy, nursing, and inpatient cardiac rehab personnel. Knowing how to gauge your exertion level and take your pulse is helpful for everyone, regardless of your heart health.