This test is used with doppler ultrasound, which allows the vascular technologist or sonographer to evaluate blood flow to various parts of the body. This technology allows studies of the arterial, venous and the cerebrovascular systems. The procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to one hour to perform.
Vascular Ultrasound Instructions
1. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment. You may park in the Shore Cancer Center/CardioVascular Institute parking lot on Brighton Avenue and walk directly across the street to the CardioVascular Institute. 2. You will register for your exam at the reception desk in the CardioVascular Institute. 3. Please bring the following items with you:
- Drivers license or other photo identification
- Insurance cards
- Prescription or order from your physician and referrals if required
- A list of your medications with dosages
4. There are no other special preparations for this study unless it is an abdominal aorta exam. The preparation for abdominal aorta is not to eat or drink eight hours before study (you may take medication with a small amount of water).
Common Tests in the Vascular Lab:
Venous Duplex Ultrasound (upper and lower extremities)
A venous duplex ultrasound is a test using high frequency sound waves (ultrasound) that evaluates the flow of blood through the veins in the arms or legs. This procedure takes approximately 30 minutes to one hour to perform. A water-soluble gel is placed on your skin. A handheld device called a transducer is placed on the area. The transducer directs high-frequency sound waves to the veins being tested, while the gel helps transmit the sound.
Carotid Duplex Ultrasound
Carotid duplex is a procedure that uses ultrasound to look for plaques, blood clots, or other blood flow problems in the carotid arteries. The carotid arteries are located in the neck and supply blood to the brain. The test is done in the peripheral vascular lab of a hospital. You are placed on your back and your head will be supported to prevent movement during the test. You can move at any time if needed. A water-soluble gel is placed on your skin. A handheld device called a transducer is placed on the area. The transducer directs high-frequency sound waves to the arteries being tested, while the gel helps transmit the sound. The ultrasound is turned on and images of the carotid arteries and pulse wave forms are obtained.
Pulse Volume Recording (PVR)
Pulse volume recording, also known as plethysmography, is a non-invasive test that measures blood flow within the blood vessels, or arteries. Its purpose is to help locate blockages in the arteries. The test performs pulse volume recording on the legs to help diagnose leg artery disease. Blood pressure cuffs are place on your arms and legs. Pulse volume recording may also be used in patients with suspected arm artery disease, thoracic outlet syndrome, or spasms of the finger arteries.
