Hypertension Center - Services What's New! UCD Home News & Events Academics & Research Community Outreach Student Resources Faculty & Employee Info UCH Healthcare Professional
Advanced Search
Hypertension home
Pulmonary Hypertension Center - Services

Services offered:


Initial Evaluation

Review of Evaluation to date, comprehensive history and physical examination, conference regarding diagnostic and therapeutic options.



Non-Invasive Diagnostic Testing
  • Chest radiography (chest x-ray)
  • Electrocardiography (EKG)
  • Echocardiogrpahy (ultrasound of the heart) with interpretation by cardiologists experienced in pulmonary hypertension.
  • Ventilation-perfusion lung scanning to evaluate for pulmonary embolism (blood clots passing to blood vessels)
  • Pulmonary function tests (breathing tests) to evaluate for possible underlying lung disease (such as emphysema, interstitial lung disease, etc.)
  • Comprehensive blood tests to evaluate for possible underlying liver disease, collagen-vascular disease (scleroderma, mixed connective tissue disease, lupus, etc), etc.
  • Computed tomography scanning (CAT scan) to evaluate for underlying lung disease.
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI scan) to define the anatomy of central blood vessels and heart.


Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac catheterization is performed by Dr. Bertron M. Groves, one of the most experienced physicians in the field of pulmonary hypertension, and a recognized expert in pulmonary hemodynamics (measurement of blood pressures and flow generated by the heart). This is done in one of two state-of-the-art, digitalized, demonstration catheterization laboratories. A trial of vasodilator therapy, with hemodynamic monitoring, is performed if indicated.


The Cardiac Catheterization Lab



Pulmonary Angiography

Radiography imaging of the lung blood vessels to evaluate blood clots is done by interventional radiologists experienced in the care of patients with pulmonary hypertension, in a state-of-the-art digitalized suite.


Dr. Badesch reviews a patient's pulmonary angiograms.



Comprehensive Review of Test Results

All test results are discussed with one of the pulmonary hypertension specialists.



Development of Treatment Plan

A treatment plan is developed in an interactive way, with participation of the patient and family in all important decisions.



Continuously Infused Prostacyclin in PPH Patients

When indicated, one of the most experienced teams in the United States is available to initiate treatment with continuously infused prostacyclin (Flolan).



Participation in Clinical Research Protocols

The patient with pulmonary hypertension is offered the opportunity to participate in a wide range of clinical research projects, at a center known for its leading edge research in pulmonary hypertension for approximately 30 years.



Lung Transplantation

If needed, lung transplantation is available at one of the most successful programs in the United States.



Pulmonary Hypertension Support Group

A support group meets monthly to discuss the unique challenges faced by the pulmonary hypertension patient and their family.
 
 
Top of Page
Home   News & Events   Academics & Research   Community Outreach   Student Resources   Faculty & Employee Info
[UCD Branding]     University of Colorado Hospital (UCH)  Search UCD/UCH
    University of Colorado Denver (UCD)  About this site
Copyright 2000, All rights reserved - Disclaimer - EOE - Acceptable use - Mail webmaster - Last updated 05-21-2003