REQUEST AN APPOINTMENTLaboratory Testing
Kidney and Hypertension Specialists provide a full range of diagnostic services including routine chemistry, hematology and urinalysis as well as monitoring immunosuppressant drug levels for post transplant patients.
Glofil Testing
This is considered one of the most accurate methods of evaluating kidney function. Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is used in the diagnosis or monitoring of patients with kidney disease. The higher the GFR, the better the kidneys are functioning.
Before starting the test, the patient drinks enough water to be well hydrated. An injection of GLOFIL-125 is followed by the collection of blood and urine at specific intervals. Radioactivity of both the blood and urine specimens is determined and the GFR is calculated.
Glofil testing is ordered annually on all post-transplant patients; however, during the first year post-transplant, testing is done more frequently.
Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) Testing
The ankle-brachial index test is a quick, noninvasive way to check your risk of peripheral artery disease (PAD). Peripheral artery disease is a condition in which the arteries in your legs or arms are narrowed or blocked. People with peripheral artery disease are at an increased risk of heart attack, stroke, poor circulation and leg pain.
The ankle-brachial index test compares your blood pressure measured at your ankle with your blood pressure measured at your arm. A low ankle-brachial index number can indicate narrowing or blockage of the arteries in your legs, increasing your risk of circulatory problems, and possibly causing heart disease or stroke.
The ankle-brachial index test is sometimes recommended as part of a series of three tests, including the carotid ultrasound and abdominal ultrasound, to check for blocked or diseased arteries.
Bone Densitometry (DEXA Scan)
A DEXA scan estimates bone strength by measuring bone mineral density. Bone mineral density is used to predict bone fracture risk and assess bone response to treatments. Annual bone densitometry is recommended after the first year post-transplant due to the immunosuppressant drugs prescribed for patients.
X-rays
X-rays are available at Kidney and Hypertension Specialists.
Ultrasound
Kidney and Hypertension Specialists perform ultrasound studies of the abdomen, kidneys and bladder. Annual kidney ultrasound is recommended after the first year post- transplant. Renal and vascular ultrasound studies are also available.
Vascular ultrasound of the veins and arteries evaluate blood flow through the vessels to:
▪ Locate and identify blockages or blood clots in the legs and arms
▪ Determine if there is an enlarged artery (aneurysm)
▪ Help monitor blood flow to organs and tissues
▪ Locate and identify blockages and abnormalities like plaque or emboli
Echocardiogram
An echocardiogram is a non-invasive sonogram to assess the heart’s function, structure and blood flow.