Nuclear Stress Test Imaging Nuclear stress test imaging is a series of cardiac imaging studies conducted at rest and after exercise using the same principles as a basic exercise stress test but resulting in significantly more information. It uses a radioactive tracer and an imaging camera to create pictures that show the blood flow to your heart muscle while you are at rest and exercising, revealing areas in your heart with poor blood flow or damage. Tests are conducted in two phases: a resting image of the heart with a nuclear isotope and the exercise portion with additional isotopes.

Tilt Table Test The tilt table test evaluates presyncope (fainting). Many fainting episodes are due to a syndrome called transient autonomic dysfunction or neuro-cardiogenic syncope, which causes a sudden drop in blood pressure and a slow heart rate when body position changes suddenly. In some instances, these heart rate and blood pressure changes cause fainting. This procedure attempts to cause syncope by creating changes in posture from lying to standing. The patient lies flat on a special bed or table while connected to electrocardiogram (ECG) and blood pressure monitors.

Transesophageal Echocardiogram (TEE) A transesophageal echocardiogram (TEE) is a diagnostic ultrasound test that gives cardiologists a clear view of the heart through a small tube passed into the esophagus. Our technicians insert a probe with a transducer (like a microphone) down the esophagus during the procedure. The transducer sends out ultrasonic sound waves at a frequency too high to be heard.

Transthoracic Echocardiogram (TTE) A transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), commonly referred to as an "echocardiogram" or "echo" is a non-invasive diagnostic ultrasound that allows Inova's specialists to look at the heart without X-rays or surgery. It is the most common type of echocardiogram. After applying a small amount of gel, our technicians press a transducer (like a microphone) firmly against the chest and move it slowly to specific locations and angles. The transducer sends out ultrasonic sound waves at a frequency too high to be heard.

We offer both on-site appointments at our hospital locations and individualized virtual options to meet your cardiovascular education and recovery needs. Caring for patients in the most timely, safe manner as we navigate the pandemic remains our top priority.  When you come to Inova for cardiac rehabilitation, you’re Safe@Inova. Our appointments follow strict safety guidelines. Learn More. As a result, wait times to start cardiac rehab may be longer than expected and vary at each of our four locations.  We look forward to supporting your recovery process!

We offer both on-site appointments at our hospital locations and individualized virtual options to meet your cardiovascular education and recovery needs. Caring for patients in the most timely, safe manner as we navigate the pandemic remains our top priority.  When you come to Inova for cardiac rehabilitation, you’re Safe@Inova. Our appointments follow strict safety guidelines. Learn More.

Our multidisciplinary team provides complete and personalized heart-disease management for patients enrolled in our Cardiac Rehabilitation Program. Team members keep your doctor informed of your progress through letters and phone calls. Our experienced team of healthcare professionals includes: Certified cardiac nurses Dietitians Exercise physiologists Physical therapists Robert A. Shor, MD Medical Director Inova Fairfax Medical Campus Narian P. Rajan, MD Medical Director Inova Alexandria Hospital Tariq A.

Inova Cardiac Surgery Services Inova Cardiac Surgery Services is an experienced, high volume, high performing program specializing in surgeries on the internal heart structures and great vessels to treat complications from heart disease and heart defects. Our team of board-certified and fellowship-trained heart surgeons treat a wide range of conditions including repair and replacement of heart structures (such as valves) and implanting medical devices to support heart function.

Our Team Our board-certified and fellowship-trained surgeons have performed thousands of procedures, pioneering new treatment and recovery approaches with results rarely matched nationwide. Inova Heart and Vascular Institute at Inova Fairfax Medical Campus, where we perform our cardiac surgeries, is a high volume cardiac center that consistently receives the highest ratings for quality and superior patient outcomes.

We are pleased that you and your physician have chosen Inova Heart and Vascular Institute (IHVI) for your upcoming cardiac surgery. Our goal is to make your experience at IHVI as comfortable as possible. Please take time to download and read our printable guide , watch the step-by-step videos below, and note any questions or concerns you wish to discuss with your care team. If you have questions or concerns, please call 571-472-4600.