Colorado Heart and Body Imaging Expands to Cherry Creek; Second Denver-Area Location Offers Preventive and Diagnostic Imaging

DENVER -- Colorado Heart and Body Imaging announces the opening of a second preventive imaging center in Denver. The center, which opened for business on January 2, is located at 201 Columbine St. in Cherry Creek.

The original Colorado Heart and Body Imaging (CHBI) center near downtown Denver opened in 1997 and was the first such facility in the Rocky Mountain region to use advanced electron beam tomography (EBT) for the early detection and prevention of coronary artery disease. CHBI Medical Director Dr. James Ehrlich said the expansion reflects consumer demand for preventive health care services and the increasing requirements for clinical research.

"Proactive, middle-aged consumers who want more control over their health are driving increased demand for quality preventive imaging services," said Ehrlich. "We're meeting that demand by expanding our facilities. But we're also building on our hard-won regional and national reputation for excellence in preventive imaging services."

Ehrlich said that by employing nationally recognized authorities in coronary imaging and conducting groundbreaking research into the early detection of heart disease, cancer and osteoporosis, CHBI has helped thousands of residents in the mountain states region lower their risk of disease and lead healthier lifestyles. The center also recently affiliated with Aurora-Denver Cardiology Associates.

Ehrlich is a recognized national authority in the integration of imaging methods with conventional coronary risk assessment. He is medical co-director of diagnostic imaging centers in Indianapolis and Washington, D.C. and a contributing author for the second edition of the "Cardiology Secrets" textbook. In addition, Ehrlich is a co-founder and board member of the Society of Atheroclerosis Imaging and is currently on staff at Rose Medical Center in Denver.

CHBI is currently accepting appointments for screenings at both locations. Preventive imaging procedures offered include:

-- Coronary Artery Scan (heart scan) -- an examination of the heart using

the high resolution, low radiation dose Electron Beam Tomography (EBT)

scanner

-- Lung Scan -- EBT scan of the lungs and chest performed by a board

certified radiologist. Pulmonary function testing (spirometry) is

included

-- Full Body Scan -- includes the heart scan, EBT lung screen, pulmonary

function testing and EBT abdomen/pelvis scans with or without oral

contrast

-- Virtual Colonoscopy -- an interactive 3D "fly through" of the entire

(100%) colon surface and abdomen/pelvis. Requires only light

preparation and allows for an immediate return to normal activities.

-- QCT Bone Density Scan -- measures changes associated with decreased

bone density, which is the single most predictive factor for

osteoporosis

Source: Colorado Heart & Body Imaging