Catheterization Lab: Equipment and Facilities

A brief history of the Catheterization Laboratories

The Cardiac Catheterization Laboratories were established in 1960 and since this time case volume has grown exponentially. Initially diagnostic catheterization for coronary, valvular, congenital, heart disease and cardiomyopathy was offered. In 1983 coronary intervention in the form of coronary angioplasty was introduced. In 1986 balloon valvuloplasty was introduced. In 1988 intervention for congenital heart disease was introduced. Coronary athrectomy and stenting were introduced in early 1990's. Since then a steady stream of technological advances have been incorporated into the cardiac catheterization laboratories.

The Catheterization Laboratories Today

The cardiac catheterization laboratories at Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center employ the latest technologies to ensure better patient outcomes. As new devices and technologies are introduced in the market, we analyze which systems will provide our staff and patients with the best results.

In May 2002, we installed an INNOVA “flat detector” imaging system and in May 2003, we added a second “flat detector” room. In 2005 and 2006, two new flat detector labs with increased capability to perform peripheral artery studies and interventions, as well. This year, we opened the first flat detector biplane cath lab. Biplane allows for two angles to be imaged simultaneously. This capability is very important for pediatric patients as well as in complex adult interventional procedures. As demand for these services continue to grow, we continue to look ahead to determine how we can best meet patients needs. Today, the cardiac catheterization laboratory includes state-of-the-art hemodynamic systems, circulatory support devices, and intravascular and intracardiac ultrasound. A computerized report generator, a robust catheterization laboratory data base and inventory system are coupled with rigorous outcome monitoring to provide the data needed to manage a high-quality invasive cardiology program. Using these technologies, we are able to provide point of care testing for arterial blood gases, electrolytes, ionized calcium, glucose, lipids, activated clotting time, anti-factor Xa, and platelet aggregation.