Pulmonary Diagnostics

The Cecily & Robert Harris Pulmonary Diagnostic Center offers state-of-the-art pulmonary function testing (PFT) and cardio-pulmonary exercise testing (CPET). The center is one of the largest and busiest laboratories in the New York City area.

Comprehensive Pulmonary Testing 

The center is committed to maintaining American Thoracic Society standards for quality assurance and control. Our comprehensive team of experts includes:

• Board-certified physicians
• Registered Nurses
• Respiratory Therapists
• Exercise Physiologists
• PFT technicians who specialize in the care of adult patients with breathing problems.

Access to the Latest Research

As part of Columbia University Irving Medical Center/NewYork-Presbyterian, we participate in many clinical research programs evaluating the latest advances in testing and treatments for pulmonary disease.

Our Services

Pulmonary Function Testing (PFT)

We use the most advanced technology available to assess a patient’s lung health, investigate the cause of respiratory symptoms, and evaluate prescribed treatments. The PFT laboratory provides comprehensive testing options, including:

• Spirometry (with/without bronchodilator and/or bronchial provocation)
• Lung volume testing by plethysmography and nitrogen washout
• Lung diffusing capacity
• Maximal respiratory muscle pressure assessment
• Maximal voluntary ventilation assessment
• Assessment of upper airway function
• Exercise and rest pulse oximetry
• Arterial blood gas measurements
• Assessment of physiologic shunt fraction

Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (CPET)

The CPET laboratory assesses cardio-pulmonary function during incremental exercise (bicycle ergometry) and combines the routine measurements of the electrocardiogram (ECG), blood pressure, pulse oximetry, and power output with the analysis of exhaled gases. CPET is used 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 and pre-surgical risk for pulmonary resection

Optoelectronic Plethysmography (OEP)

Optoelectronic Plethysmography (OEP) is a non-invasive system that uses infrared cameras and small reflective markers to measure the movement of the chest wall and abdomen. OEP can accurately assess changes in lung volumes and breathing patterns.