Vascular Ultrasound

Vascular ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to examine blood circulation and create images of veins and arteries. It’s often used to examine areas of the neck, arms and legs.

Why is it done?
Vascular ultrasound is commonly advised for people suspected of having circulatory system problems. Doctors often recommend vascular ultrasound to help diagnose, treat and prevent conditions including varicose veins or deep venous thrombosis. It’s a good way to examine blood flow, find blockages or blood clots, check on stents or grafts, determine if a person is a good candidate for a possible procedure, and ascertain the success of a procedure.

How is it done?
In a typical vascular ultrasound, the patient is reclined on an exam table. The ultrasound tech or radiologist applies gel to the part of the body being examined, and then moves a transducer over the area. The transducer is a wand-like instrument that sends and records sound waves. The recorded sound waves are captured in image form on a computer monitor and can then be printed.

What are the risks and possible side effects?
There typically are no risks or side effects associated with a vascular ultrasound procedure.

Is it painful?
A vascular ultrasound is commonly simple and painless. It generally takes approximately thirty minutes to one hour to perform and involves no needles, sedatives or anesthesia. The patient can resume normal activity immediately following the procedure.

How is an ultrasound different from an x-ray?
Ultrasound transmits high-frequency sound waves through body tissue to create images, while x-ray technology uses ionizing radiation.

How do I get the results?
The radiologist may discuss results with a patient, or the images may be further reviewed, after which results may be sent to a patient’s doctor.

For more information about diagnostic testing and procedures at CFCVI, please visit our website or call 407-518-3811.

Sources:

Ultrasound – Vascular (RadiologyInfo.org)

Vascular Ultrasound (VascularUltrasound.net)

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Tags: cardiology, Central Florida Cardiac & Vascular Institute, CFCVI, diagnostic testing, vascular ultrasound