Vascular Ultrasound

Vascular Ultrasound is a noninvasive vascular evaluation. Noninvasive means that it does not involve the insertion of needles through the skin. There is no pain involve in a noninvasive vascular evaluation, although you may experience discomfort if you have swelling or tenderness in the area to be examined. There are no known harmful side effects with the use of ultrasound.

What is Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is like ordinary sound except it has a higher frequency than humans can hear. The sound is emitted from a probe (a wand-like instrument) resting on your skin. The sound is reflected off internal structures such as blood vessels then back to the probe. The returning signals are converted by the ultrasound machine into an image of the blood vessels and blood flow, which can then be viewed on a monitor like screen. The images are saved to videotape for later viewing by a qualified interpreter.

Why do I need to have a noninvasive vascular examination?

Your doctor has determined, based on your symptoms and physical examination, that one of the following vascular examinations would be beneficial in providing more information about your vascular health:

Cerebrovascular Evaluation—Used to evaluate arteries in your head and neck.
Peripheral Arterial or venous evaluation—Used to evaluate blood flow in your legs, arms or both.
Abdominal Vascular Evaluation—Used to evaluate blood flow to your
abdominal organs.

What is Included in a Noninvasive Vascular Examination?

Using a variety of techniques, including ultrasound, your blood vessels will be evaluated. The vascular technologist will:

Obtain a brief medical history
Take a blood pressure measurement
Check your pulses

What Do I Need To Do To Prepare For The Examination?

No prior preparation is necessary for the cerebrovascular and peripheral
venous examinations.
If you are to have a peripheral arterial or abdominal vascular evaluation, you should not eat or drink (except water and any medications) 8 hours prior to your appointment time.
Note: Diabetic patients are exempt from this and should eat and drink as usual.

How Long Does The Examination Take?

The average examination takes approximately one hour. Depending on the findings, the test may take a little longer.

Will I Need More Than One Examination?

Depending on the findings and the therapy prescribed, follow-up exams may be necessary to evaluate your progress.

For more information contact your healthcare provider or email cardiology@highlinemedical.org.