Medical Specialties 
Noninvasive Cardiac Imaging and Cardiac Radiology Services
The Noninvasive Cardiac Imaging Service is essential in facilitating accurate diagnosis and treatment plans for patients. Under the supervision of Lilliam Valdes-Cruz, MD, an expert in pediatric echocardiography, we offer several types of noninvasive diagnostic tests. Many of these tests can be performed at our Pediatric Heart Station during a visit with the physician. Other, more advanced studies will be arranged through the Pediatric Heart Station but will be conducted in the Outpatient Radiology Department.
Echocardiography
Also known as cardiac imaging, echocardiography is a noninvasive diagnostic procedure that creates images of a patient's heart with the help of ultrasonic heart waves. This procedure plays a major role in identifying congenital heart problems in fetuses as well as in babies, children and adults.
Noninvasive Cardiac Radiology Studies
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive way to take images of a patient's body using a magnet, radio waves and a computer. The MRI machine does not touch the patient's body and does not use X-rays or radioactive radiation. A cardiovascular MRI may be ordered if echocardiography cannot provide adequate diagnostic information.
Other Non-Invasive Diagnostic Tests
Click on the following links to learn more about these non-invasive diagnostic tests:
- Electrocardiograms (EKG)
- Holter monitoring
- Stress tests
- Tilt tests
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
- Computed Tomography scan (CT scan)
Our staff will gladly answer your questions about these tests and, if necessary, provide you with special instructions on how to prepare for them.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about the Cardiac Center at Joe DiMaggio Children's Hospital, please call 954-265-3437.
Tips
- Bring your child's medical records
- Have the name & phone of your child's physician handy
- Let the medical personnel know of any allergies
- Try to leave siblings at home if possible