Vascular Ultrasound

What Is An Ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a safe procedure that uses high frequency sound waves to produce images of the vessels (arteries and veins) within the body. A small held-held scanning device, known as a probe, is placed on the skin. Silent sound waves pass through the body's organs and echoes are shown as pictures.

Ultrasound is not radiation. It has been used for medical testing since the 1960's and has shown no harmful effects.

The Procedure:

You may be asked to change into a gown. Blood pressure cuffs may be applied to your arms or legs depending on the test you are having done. The technologist will listen to the artery and will inflate the cuffs. This may be painful if the area is tender. The technologist will then apply a liquid gel on the skin. The probe will be moved across your skin to obtain the ultrasound images that are recorded on film.

During the exam, you will be asked to lie very still so that proper images can be obtained.

Inpatient and Outpatient Preparation Instructions:

Upper/Lower Venous/Carotid

• There is no dietary prep for this test.
• You may take your normal medication for this test.
• For Venous Doppler's of the arms or legs, the test may be painful if the arms or legs are swollen or tender.
• Procedure time: 30 - 60 minutes

Arterial Doppers

• There is no dietary prep for this test.
• May take normal medications.
• Procedure time: 1 - 1 ½ hours

For Your Information:

The Radiologist (x-ray doctor) will read your test and give the results to your doctor in 2-3 days.

If you have any questions please call 419-394-3335 ext. 3550 for assistance.