Cath Lab

Cath Lab at Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital, PCMC: Your journey to a healthier heart starts here 

At Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital in Pimpri Chinchwad (PCMC), we offer advanced diagnostic and treatment services for heart-related conditions through our state-of-the-art Cath Lab (Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory). Whether you’re undergoing routine heart checks or facing more serious cardiac issues, our experienced team of cardiologists is committed to ensuring that you receive the highest quality care.

The Cath Lab is a specialized facility where doctors perform diagnostic and therapeutic procedures to evaluate and treat cardiovascular conditions. Below, we will discuss various tests and services offered through our Cath Lab that help in diagnosing and monitoring heart health, ensuring patients can make informed decisions about their care.

1. Stress Test

A stress test, also known as an exercise stress test, helps assess how well your heart functions during physical activity. Since exercise increases the heart’s demand for blood and oxygen, this test can reveal if there are any problems with blood flow within your heart.

At Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital, we use the stress test to identify:

• Coronary artery disease (narrowed or blocked arteries)

• Arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats)

• Effectiveness of heart treatments (e.g., medications or previous procedures)

The test involves walking on a treadmill while your heart rate, blood pressure, and ECG (Electrocardiogram) are monitored. For patients who cannot exercise, a medication that simulates the effects of exercise on the heart may be administered.

2. ECG (Electrocardiogram)

The ECG is a simple, painless test that records the electrical activity of your heart. This test is commonly performed in our Cath Lab to detect:

• Arrhythmias

• Heart attacks

• Abnormal heart structure

• Electrolyte imbalances

During an ECG, small electrodes are attached to your chest, arms, and legs to measure the electrical signals that prompt your heart to beat. The test only takes a few minutes, and the results help cardiologists determine the need for further tests or treatments.

3. Cardiac Markers

Cardiac markers, also known as biomarkers, are substances found in the blood when the heart is under stress or damaged. These markers are crucial in diagnosing heart attacks and other heart-related conditions. Common cardiac markers include:

• Troponin: Elevated levels indicate heart muscle injury, often from a heart attack.

• Creatine Kinase-MB (CK-MB): Helps in identifying heart muscle damage.

• BNP (B-type Natriuretic Peptide): Assists in diagnosing heart failure.

At Brahm Chaitanya, our pathology lab works closely with the Cath Lab to quickly process and interpret cardiac marker results, ensuring timely diagnosis and intervention in emergencies.

4. Pathology Lab

Our advanced Pathology Lab plays a critical role in supporting the Cath Lab by conducting various blood tests that aid in diagnosing and managing heart disease. Beyond cardiac markers, we offer:

• Lipid profile: Measures cholesterol and triglyceride levels.

• Electrolyte tests: Helps in assessing imbalances that may affect heart rhythm.

• Complete blood count (CBC): Assists in identifying infections, anemia, and other conditions that may complicate heart health.

Accurate and timely lab results help our cardiologists determine the best course of treatment for each patient.

5. Holter Monitoring

For patients who experience irregular heartbeats or symptoms like dizziness or fainting, Holter monitoring is a useful tool. It is a continuous, 24-48 hour ECG that records your heart’s activity over a longer period, while you go about your daily activities.

Holter monitoring is typically used to:

• Diagnose arrhythmias that may not be detectable during a standard ECG.

• Monitor the effectiveness of heart medications or devices like pacemakers.

• Assess the impact of lifestyle factors on heart function.

At Brahm Chaitanya, we provide high-quality Holter monitoring equipment, and our cardiologists carefully analyze the results to offer personalized treatment recommendations.

6. 2D Echo by Experienced Cardiologist

At Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital in Pimpri Chinchwad (PCMC), 2D Echo (Two-Dimensional Echocardiography) is one of the most commonly performed diagnostic tests in our Cath Lab. This non-invasive imaging technique is used by our experienced cardiologists to assess the structure and function of your heart in real-time.

What is 2D Echo?

2D Echo uses ultrasound waves to create detailed, moving images of the heart. These images provide valuable insights into the heart’s anatomy, including its chambers, valves, and blood flow patterns. The procedure is painless and safe, making it a preferred choice for diagnosing and monitoring various heart conditions.

How 2D Echo is Performed?

During the test, a gel is applied to the chest area, and a handheld device called a transducer is moved across the skin. This device sends high-frequency sound waves into the chest, which bounce off the heart and create images on a monitor. The entire process usually takes 20-30 minutes.

Why is 2D Echo Important?

2D Echo provides cardiologists with crucial information about the heart’s condition, helping them detect and diagnose various issues. Here’s how it benefits patients:

1. Heart Structure Evaluation

   • Identifies abnormalities in the heart’s chambers or walls, such as thickening or thinning.

   • Detects congenital heart defects.

2. Valve Function Assessment

   • Evaluates the proper opening and closing of heart valves.

   • Identifies conditions like valve stenosis (narrowing) or regurgitation (leakage).

3. Heart Function Monitoring

   • Measures the heart’s pumping efficiency (ejection fraction).

   • Monitors conditions like heart failure or cardiomyopathy.

4. Blood Flow Analysis

   • Detects issues with blood flow patterns, such as blockages or backflow.

   • Identifies conditions like pulmonary hypertension or blood clots.

5. Post-Procedural and Post-Surgical Monitoring

   • Assesses the effectiveness of treatments like stents or pacemakers.

   • Monitors recovery after cardiac surgeries.

Who Needs 2D Echo?

Your cardiologist may recommend a 2D Echo if you experience symptoms such as:

• Chest pain or discomfort

• Shortness of breath

• Unexplained fatigue

• Swelling in the legs or abdomen

• Palpitations or irregular heartbeats

It is also routinely used for patients with a history of heart disease or conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes, which may increase the risk of heart problems.

Conclusion: A Commitment to Heart Health

The Cath Lab at Brahm Chaitanya Super Speciality Hospital in PCMC is more than just a facility for heart-related procedures—it’s a comprehensive center for heart care. From stress tests and ECGs to advanced cardiac monitoring and diagnostic services, we are equipped with the latest technology to support your heart health.

Whether you are visiting for a routine check-up or a more complex cardiac issue, our team of experienced cardiologists is here to guide you through every step of your journey to better heart health. If you have any concerns about your heart or are experiencing symptoms like chest pain, shortness of breath, or irregular heartbeats, don’t hesitate to consult our team. We are here to help you lead a heart-healthy life.

Understanding Orthopedics:

When we think about our bodies, we often take for granted the intricate system of bones, joints, muscles, and ligaments that allow us to move, work, and enjoy life. However, when something goes wrong within this system—whether due to injury, disease, or age-related wear and tear—the impact on our quality of life can be significant. This is where the field of orthopedics comes in. Orthopedics is a branch of medicine focused on the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders of the musculoskeletal system. This article will help you understand the basics of orthopedics, common conditions treated by orthopedic specialists, and what to expect when you visit an orthopedic doctor.

What is Orthopedics?

Orthopedics (or orthopaedics, as it is spelled in some countries) is the medical specialty concerned with the care of the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. The word “orthopedics” comes from the Greek words “ortho,” meaning straight, and “paideia,” meaning rearing of children. Originally, the field focused on correcting deformities in children, but it has since expanded to address a wide range of issues affecting patients of all ages.

Orthopedic specialists, known as orthopedic surgeons or orthopedists, are trained to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, from acute injuries like fractures and dislocations to chronic conditions like arthritis and back pain. They use both surgical and non-surgical methods to restore function and relieve pain, allowing patients to return to their normal activities.

Common Orthopedic Conditions

Orthopedics covers a broad spectrum of conditions, some of the most common include:

1. Arthritis: Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints that can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, and reduced range of motion. The two most common types are osteoarthritis, which is related to aging and wear and tear, and rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition.
2. Fractures: A fracture is a break in the bone, which can occur due to trauma (like a fall or accident) or because of conditions that weaken the bones, such as osteoporosis. Depending on the severity and location of the fracture, treatment may involve immobilization with a cast or splint, or surgery to realign the bones.
3. Sprains and Strains: Sprains occur when ligaments (the tissues that connect bones to other bones) are stretched or torn, usually in the ankles, knees, or wrists. Strains, on the other hand, involve muscles or tendons (the tissues that connect muscles to bones) and often occur in the back, hamstrings, or shoulders.
4. Back Pain: Back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit an orthopedic doctor. It can result from a variety of factors, including muscle strain, disc herniation, spinal stenosis, or degenerative disc disease. Treatment may involve physical therapy, medication, or, in severe cases, surgery.
5. Tendonitis: Tendonitis is inflammation of a tendon, often caused by repetitive motion or overuse. It commonly affects the shoulders, elbows, wrists, and knees, leading to pain and restricted movement.
6. Bursitis: Bursitis is the inflammation of the small, fluid-filled sacs (bursae) that cushion the bones, tendons, and muscles near your joints. It typically occurs in the shoulders, elbows, hips, or knees, and is often caused by repetitive movements or pressure.
7. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This condition is caused by compression of the median nerve as it travels through the wrist’s carpal tunnel. It leads to pain, numbness, and tingling in the hand and arm, and is often related to repetitive hand movements or underlying medical conditions like diabetes or rheumatoid arthritis.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

If you experience persistent pain, swelling, or limited mobility in your joints, muscles, or bones, it may be time to consult an orthopedic specialist. While some conditions can be managed with rest, ice, and over-the-counter pain relievers, others require professional diagnosis and treatment. Here are some signs that you should seek orthopedic care:

• Chronic pain: If pain persists for more than a few weeks, especially if it’s affecting your daily activities or sleep, it’s important to get it checked out.
• Limited mobility: If you’re having trouble moving a joint, such as your knee or shoulder, or if you’re experiencing stiffness, an orthopedic evaluation can help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
• Joint deformity: If you notice a visible deformity in a joint, such as a misaligned bone or a joint that doesn’t move properly, you should seek immediate care.
• Injury: After a traumatic injury, such as a fall or accident, it’s important to see an orthopedic specialist, especially if you suspect a fracture, dislocation, or severe sprain.
• Swelling: Persistent swelling, especially if it’s accompanied by redness or warmth, could indicate an underlying issue that needs attention.

What to Expect During an Orthopedic Visit

During your first visit to an orthopedic specialist, you can expect a thorough evaluation that may include:

• Medical History: Your doctor will ask about your symptoms, when they started, and how they’ve progressed. They will also review your medical history, including any previous injuries, surgeries, or chronic conditions.
• Physical Examination: Your doctor will examine the affected area, checking for pain, swelling, range of motion, and stability. They may also assess your posture, gait, and overall physical condition.
• Imaging Tests: Depending on your symptoms, your doctor may order imaging tests such as X-rays, MRI scans, or CT scans to get a closer look at the bones, joints, and soft tissues.
• Diagnosis and Treatment Plan: Based on the findings, your doctor will diagnose your condition and discuss treatment options. This may include physical therapy, medications, injections, or surgery, depending on the severity of your condition.

If you have any Personal Queries you can schedule your Consultation with Dr. Sushil Kulkarni (Orthopedic & Joint Replacement Surgeon )