Vascular Ultrasound Studies
What are Vascular Ultrasound Studies?
A vascular study is an ultrasound of an area of the body designed to specifically capture images of the main arteries in that area. They are performed to help physicians identify blockages to blood flow (clots), narrowing of the vessels (stenosis), and enlargement of arteries (aneurysm). Types of vascular studies include: carotid duplex, ankle-brachial index, lower extremity arterial duplex scan, upper extremity arterial duplex scan, renal arterial duplex scan and abdominal aortic ultrasound.
What to Expect During a Vascular Study
You will be asked by the vascular technologist to lie face up on the examination table. A clear water-based gel will be applied to the area of the body being studied. The technologist will move the ultrasound probe over the gelled area to capture the images. The test is expected to last from 25-45 minutes depending on which type of vascular study is ordered by your physician.
A vascular study is an ultrasound of an area of the body designed to specifically capture images of the main arteries in that area. They are performed to help physicians identify blockages to blood flow (clots), narrowing of the vessels (stenosis), and enlargement of arteries (aneurysm). Types of vascular studies include: carotid duplex, ankle-brachial index, lower extremity arterial duplex scan, upper extremity arterial duplex scan, renal arterial duplex scan and abdominal aortic ultrasound.
What to Expect During a Vascular Study
You will be asked by the vascular technologist to lie face up on the examination table. A clear water-based gel will be applied to the area of the body being studied. The technologist will move the ultrasound probe over the gelled area to capture the images. The test is expected to last from 25-45 minutes depending on which type of vascular study is ordered by your physician.
- Consist of clear trays that are changed out
- Orthodontic appliances may also be a part
- Lingual braces are attached like
- Traditional metal braces but less noticeable
- Orthodontic appliances may also be a part
- Consist of clear trays that are changed out
Benefits With Our Service
Lower extremity and abdominal ultrasounds are non-invasive imaging tests used to evaluate blood flow and detect vascular issues. A lower extremity ultrasound focuses on the blood vessels in the legs, helping to identify conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), peripheral artery disease (PAD), or blockages that can affect circulation. An abdominal ultrasound is used to examine the blood vessels in the abdomen, such as the aorta, to detect aneurysms or other vascular abnormalities. Both tests are quick, painless, and provide valuable information to help diagnose potential heart and vascular issues, guide treatment plans, and monitor overall cardiovascular health.
Health Tips & Info
Lower extremity and abdominal ultrasounds are non-invasive tests that help detect vascular issues like blockages, aneurysms, and poor circulation. They provide early insights into conditions such as peripheral artery disease and deep vein thrombosis, enabling timely intervention. These ultrasounds allow for safe, radiation-free monitoring of blood flow and help doctors adjust treatment plans to prevent complications and improve cardiovascular health.
No, both ultrasounds are non-invasive and painless. You may feel slight pressure from the ultrasound probe, but there is no discomfort.
For an abdominal ultrasound, you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test. There’s typically no special preparation needed for a lower extremity ultrasound.
Both tests usually take around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the complexity of the exam and the areas being examined.
Our Specialist
Maiya Patel ARNP
Nurse Practitioner
Kirrin Emary PA-C
Physician Assistant
Dr. Haroon Chughtai
Cardiologist
