Roanoke Heart Institute PLC

“Cardiolite” tests are available for standard stress and rest imaging to detect coronary artery disease. However, we also offer exams with Thallium, and “MUGA” exams for exacting quantitative measurement of left ventricular ejection fraction.

The Roanoke Heart Institute is certified by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Nuclear Medicine Laboratories. Accreditation status signifies that our facility has been reviewed by an independent agency that recognizes our laboratory’s commitment to quality testing for the diagnosis of heart disease.

The Roanoke Heart Institute emphasizes the application of advanced pharmacological means of prevention as well as treatment of cardiovascular diseases. We always use proven therapies first at the RHI. However, you may also have access to new tests or treatments under clinical investigation in studies either sponsored through the National Institutes of Health or by reputable companies in the pharmaceutical industry, as approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Echocardiography is a non-invasive test which uses soundwaves to obtain images of the heart.  Color flow and spectral Doppler imaging allow us to see a simulation of the blood flow through the heart and across the valves.  With this technology we are able to measure the size of the heart structures, thickness of the muscle and visualize the function of the muscle and the valves.

The Roanoke Heart Institute is accredited by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Echocardiography Laboratories. Accreditation status signifies that our facility has been reviewed by an independent agency that recognizes our laboratory’s commitment to quality testing for the diagnosis of heart disease.

A stress test does not have to be too stressful, but it does have to be done carefully. We will tailor your examination to you so that your referring provider gets the best possible information as soon as possible. Exercise, Adenosine, Lexiscan (Regadenoson) and Dobutamine exams are done routinely. The results are faxed to the referring provider the next business day.

Cardiac CT Angiography (CTA) provides excellent non-invasive images of the heart arteries for most patients. That means that you may not have to accept the risks associated with running a catheter up from your groin into your heart if you need to know what your coronary arteries look like. Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance Imaging (CMR) is offered in partnership with the Carilion Clinic as well, using magnets presently installed at both Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and the Crystal Spring Outpatient Imaging Center.

Dr. Schmedtje is on the cardiology staff of both Carilion Roanoke Memorial Hospital and LewisGale Medical Center (in Salem, VA.) He will admit his own patients to the hospital when indicated. In the event that he is unavailable, a cardiologist is on call for the patients of Dr. Schmedtje. Go to the Emergency Department of your nearest hospital for issues that arise after business hours, where the Roanoke Heart Institute cardiologist on call can be contacted by the emergency room staff for consultation.