Our Advanced Pulmonary Testing and Diagnostic Services

Pulmonary function tests, or PFTs, are designed to measure the health of your lungs. These tests can evaluate airflow, lung capacity, gas exchange, and other respiratory functions. Dr. Oksana Senyk uses a very gentle and patient-friendly form of PFT that was developed by exercise physiologists at Harvard, and it is safe for elderly patients or those who have additional health problems.

A bronchoscopy is a diagnostic procedure that involves using a tiny camera to examine the lungs, throat, and trachea. We perform bronchoscopies using sedation or general anesthesia to ensure the comfort of our patients. Using this test, Dr. Senyk can diagnose lung disease, lung cancer, and other pulmonary conditions.

A bronchoscopy also can be used to relieve symptoms caused by mucus that is trapped in the lower airways and cannot be coughed up by the patient. This can occur with flares of asthma and COPD. While relieving symptoms, this procedure also allows Dr. Senyk to collect samples for culture in the laboratory to identify specific infections.

Thoracentesis is done for diagnosis and treatment for patients who suffer from pleural effusion, which occurs when fluid builds up in the space between the lungs and the chest wall. During thoracentesis, Dr. Senyk will use a needle and catheter to drain excess fluid. We utilize ultrasound imaging and anesthesia to improve safety and minimize discomfort when performing a thoracentesis. 

If you suffer from heart disease, lung disease, or another related condition, Dr. Senyk may be able to improve your breathing with cardiopulmonary rehabilitation. With our approach to cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, we will seek to gradually and safely improve lung function. In some cases, treatment can also enhance stamina and the ability to exercise. 

A cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) is a type of stress test. During a CPET, you will ride a stationary bicycle or walk on a treadmill. The test will measure oxygen use, carbon dioxide production, and cardiac function. Dr. Senyk will personalize the test to meet your needs and physical abilities so that it will not involve undue exertion or leave you feeling overly tired.

If you have unexplained shortness of breath, particularly when exercising, Dr. Senyk may recommend a CPET. Following the test, she will analyze the results and recommend appropriate care. A CPET can reveal heart disease, circulation disorders, and many other conditions. It can also reveal XXXX, which can be treated effectively through gradually increased exercise.

In many cases, coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath occur because of allergies. However, patients often do not understand what is triggering these types of reactions. Allergy testing is coming soon to Dr. Senyk's facility. Call us if you are interested in allergy testing.