Vascular Ultrasound is an important diagnostic tool used in the diagnosis and detection of blood vessel problems. Ultrasound is also used to detect heart problems. Your vascular lab visit will consist of a safe non-invasive ultrasound exam. Non-invasive means the ultrasound procedure does not require the use of needles, dyes, radiation or anesthesia. Ultrasound uses sound wave frequencies too high to be heard by humans as a safe and harmless method to diagnose many medical conditions.
A qualified technologist will perform your procedure by applying a hypoallergenic water-based gel to the area to be evaluated. Then a small microphone-like device called a transducer is passed over the gel-coated area to be examined. This produces an image of the blood vessel on the screen of the ultrasound machine. Ultrasound is also used to measure the blood flow in specific blood vessels. Noises might be heard while the technologist listens to the blood flow. Upon completion of the exam, a physician reviews and interprets all of the images and blood flow measurements.
To prepare for your vascular ultrasound examination, you should wear comfortable clothing. You may be given a hospital gown and asked to undress from the waist up or down. There is no special preparation for most exams.
Most exams take 30-60 minutes to complete. After your exam is completed you will be free to go about your daily routine. The test results will generally be available within 24 to 48 hours for your referring physician’s review.
Carotid duplex ultrasound is used to evaluate the carotid arteries located in the neck. These arteries supply blood to the brain. Gel will be applied to the skin of the neck. A transducer will be placed on the gel-covered areas to obtain images and evaluate and listen to the blood flow in the arteries.
Venous Duplex ultrasound is used to evaluate the veins that carry blood to the heart from the legs or arms. Gel will be applied to the skin of the legs or arms. A transducer will be placed on the gel covered areas to obtain images and evaluate flow it the veins. Pressure will be applied to ensure that the veins are healthy and easily compressible. For this test, your physician will be notified of the results before you leave the hospital.
Arterial duplex ultrasound is used to evaluate the arteries that feed the arms and legs with blood. Gel will be applied to the skin of the legs or arms. A transducer will be placed on the gel-covered areas to obtain images and listen to the blood flow in the arms or legs.
Arterial pressures and waveforms are determined using blood pressure cuffs.This test is used to evaluate the arteries that supply the arms and legs with blood. Several blood pressure cuffs will be placed at different segments of your legs or arms. When inflated, the cuffs will provide blood pressure readings as well as waveforms. This test will locate areas of blockage within the arteries of the arm or leg.
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