Vascular Ultrasound
Vascular Ultrasound is used for evaluation of blood flow in the arteries and veins of the body to detect the presence, severity and specific location of the disease. It can diagnose a narrowing of arteries and determine the severity of narrowing. Vascular ultrasound can also be used to diagnose deep vein thrombosis or DVT, a condition in which blood clots in the veins of the arms and legs.
The 5 types of vascular ultrasound and why each is used
Carotid ultrasound (carotid duplex)
Aortic ultrasound.
Renal artery ultrasound.
Mesenteric arterial duplex tests.
Lower extremity arterial Doppler exam.
Adults: Do not eat or drink eight hours before exam. Children: Do not eat or drink four hours before study, or skip one meal. Take medications with a small sip of water. If you are diabetic, please take your insulin.
You should consider a vascular screening if you have risk factors for any vascular disorder. A family history of stroke, aneurysm, or Peripheral Artery Disease suggests the need for screening, often beginning in the 30s – particularly if other risk factors co-exist.
