What is a vascular ultrasound?
A vascular ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging exam that doesn’t involve any needles, dyes, anesthesia, or radiation.
Like other ultrasound tests, vascular ultrasound transmits sound waves to identify the problem in the area being examined. The sound waves reflect off the blood cells moving within the blood vessels. The physician who reads the ultrasound exam then calculates this speed of movement.
Who needs this test?
This test is usually recommended for individuals who are evaluated for vascular issues. Vascular ultrasound can check the following:
The blood flow in the neck arteries that supply the brain
The blood flow in the arteries to determine the presence, location, and severity of the narrowed arteries
The blood flow to a newly transplanted organ
What can you expect during the test?
The test, which usually takes 30 to 90 minutes to complete, is performed by a specially trained technologist and the results are interpreted by a vascular physician.
You will be laying down while the test is performed. A small amount of water-soluble gel is applied on the area to be examined before a transducer is placed over it.
The transducer then produces images that can be seen on the ultrasound screen.
Aside from the minor discomfort you may feel when the technologist puts pressure on the examined area, there are side effects of the test.
The Premier Vascular and Vein Center in Knoxville, TN has one of the largest dedicated Vascular Ultrasound Laboratories in the Knoxville region. Premier’s only team of board-certified vascular surgeons are experts in detecting and treating vascular and vein issues. To book an appointment, call (865) 588-8229 or visit https://www.premiervascularveincenter.com/book-online/.