Pulmonary Function Laboratory
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About the Laboratory |
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New Features of the Laboratory |
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Standard Tests |
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Specialized Tests |
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Making an Appointment |
About
the Laboratory
The newly renovated New York University Medical Center Pulmonary Function Laboratory is part of the Department of Medicine/Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care. Randi Fain, M.D., E.C.C.P., is the Medical Director. The laboratory is located in the Rusk Institute of Rehabilitation Medicine. The laboratory's technical capabilities have been upgraded to state-of-the-art level testing services (including the addition of sophisticated exercise testing), and the administrative process has been streamlined. Diagnostic testing and interpretation is performed under the supervision of Randi Fain, M.D. and Francois Haas, Ph.D., by licensed pulmonary function technicians and technologists. In addition to diagnostic testing, the laboratory is actively involved in research pertaining to obstructive airway dysfunction, regulation of breathing in neuromuscular disorders, pulmonary rehabilitation and exercise physiology.
New Features of the Laboratory
- Renovated laboratories, pleasant environment
- New state-of-the-art computerized equipment
- Expanded diagnostic services including exercise testing, nutritional assessments, PFT consultation service
- Streamlined administrative process, with preregistration eliminating requirement for full " upfront" payment in most cases
- Convenient scheduling-appointments can be made within 48 hours and reports can be made available by fax within 24 hours of testing, if requested
- New report format provides graphics, and interpretation include comparison with prior tests when available
The Pulmonary Function Laboratory offers standard PFTs for customary indications, such as the evaluation and follow-up of pulmonary symptoms and disorders, preoperative risk assessment, screening for smokers, and chemotherapy toxicity, etc. We also offer specialized testing for a variety of more unusual or elaborate indications.
- Spirometry (timed vital capacity, FEV1/FVC)
- Bronchodilator responsiveness (spirometry before and after bronchodilator administration)
- Flow volume loop
- Lung volumes (helium dilution and/or plethysmography)
- Maximum voluntary ventilation
- Diffusing capacity (single-breath carbon monoxide)
- Arterial and capillary blood gas analysis
- Pulse oximetry Airway resistance
- Maximal inspiratory and expiratory pressures
Airway Hyperreactivity Evaluation
The presence of hyperreactive airways is assessed by the ability of either cold air and exercise or inhaled broncho-constrictors to induce bronchospasm. Bronchial provocation studies are indicated to evaluate patients with unexplained pulmonary symptoms (cough, dyspnea) and normal standard PFTs, to diagnose exercise induced asthma, to determine the presence and degree of airway hyperresponsiveness, and to assess the effectiveness of medication.
Pulmonary and Cardiopulmonary Exercise Tests
These tests assess the cardiovascular and pulmonary response to progressive exercise workloads. Exercise testing is indicated to evaluate unexplained or exercise-induced dyspnea, determine whether exertional limitations are primarily cardiovascular or pulmonary in nature, document exercise-induced hypoxemia, detect covert respiratory dysfunction in patients with interstitial or pulmonary vascular disease, assess response to treatment, assess athletic training programs, and assess presurgical risk for pulmonary resection.
Disability Evaluations
The laboratory can provide disability evaluations based upon either AMA criteria (FVC, FEV1, and FEV1/FVC) or ATS criteria (FVC, FEV1, FEV1/FVC, and DLCO).
Nutritional Assessment
In collaboration with a registered dietitian, the lab can provide the clinician with an evaluation of nutritional status (anthropometrics, body mass index) and dietary index. Resting energy expenditure is obtained and recommendations made for calorie and protein requirements. These assessments are particularly useful for patients with obesity, chronic debilitating diseases, endocrinopathies, and for athletes.
Pulmonary Function Testing Consultation
Patients with unexplained or unusual pulmonary symptoms will be evaluated by the laboratory directors and an appropriate battery of tests will be performed based upon the patient's clinical symptoms, physical findings, and preliminary test results.
Oxygen Dosage Determinations
The optimal oxygen flow rate requirements at rest and during exercise can be established using pulse oximetry and/or blood gas analysis under various conditions. This can be used for oxygen prescriptions.
Patients can be scheduled Monday through Friday between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. by calling the Laboratory at (212) 263-6117. Testing can be arranged within 48 hours if necessary by special request.
Order forms, which may simplify test selection, are available on request.
A pulmonary function testing consultation can be scheduled if you need assistance in determining the most appropriate test for your patient.
