Not sure what to expect during a vascular ultrasound? The test is non-invasive, painless, and usually straightforward. At East Bay Cardiovascular and Thoracic Associates, board-certified vascular specialists and experienced technologists provide vascular ultrasound testing in Danville, CA.
What Is a Vascular Ultrasound?
A vascular ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of your blood vessels and evaluate blood flow. Unlike X-rays and other imaging tests, it does not use radiation or require an incision.
Doppler technology can also measure blood flow through your arteries and veins. Your doctor may recommend a vascular ultrasound based on your symptoms, medical history, or risk factors for vascular disease.
Why Might You Need One?
Your doctor may recommend a vascular ultrasound when symptoms suggest a blood flow problem. The test can evaluate your arteries and veins and provide information to support your diagnosis and care.
Some reasons your doctor may order a vascular ultrasound include:
- Leg pain or cramping, especially when walking
- Leg swelling or unexplained discomfort
- Non-healing wounds on the feet or legs
- Changes in circulation or skin temperature
- Symptoms that may suggest peripheral artery disease
- Follow-up after certain vascular procedures
Leg pain can have many causes, including nerve or blood vessel problems. For example, understanding the differences between PAD and sciatica can help explain why your doctor may recommend vascular testing.
How Should You Prepare?
Preparation depends on the type of vascular ultrasound you are having. Many vascular ultrasound exams require little preparation, while some may involve specific instructions.
Our healthcare team will tell you what to do before your appointment. Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being examined, and bring any requested medical information or medication details.
If you are unsure about preparation instructions, contact your provider before your appointment.
What Happens During the Ultrasound?
The vascular ultrasound itself is generally simple and does not require needles or incisions. You will usually lie on an examination table while a trained technologist examines the area being evaluated.
A small amount of water-based gel is placed on your skin. The technologist then moves a handheld ultrasound probe over the area to capture images of your blood vessels.
You may feel gentle pressure as the probe moves across your skin. The Doppler portion of the exam may produce a soft whooshing sound as the equipment measures blood flow. Depending on the type of vascular ultrasound, you may be asked to change positions or move in certain ways. Some studies may also include blood pressure measurements or exercise testing.
The technologist may take several images and measurements during the exam to provide your doctor with detailed information about your circulation.
How Long Does It Take?
The length of a vascular ultrasound varies depending on the type of examination and the areas being evaluated. Our healthcare team can estimate how long your specific appointment will take.
EBCVT’s vascular ultrasound lab performs several types of studies, including carotid, peripheral arterial, venous, abdominal and mesenteric, and vein mapping exams. We also offer exercise ankle-brachial index testing.
What Happens After the Test?
After the examination, the technologist removes the ultrasound gel from your skin. You can usually return to your normal activities unless your healthcare provider gives you different instructions.
The ultrasound images and blood-flow measurements are reviewed by a qualified physician. At EBCVT, a board-certified vascular physician or radiologist reviews the findings and prepares a report for your referring provider.
Your doctor will discuss the results with you and explain whether additional testing, monitoring, or treatment may be appropriate.
If your symptoms continue or your test identifies a vascular concern, your doctor may recommend additional evaluation. You can learn more about when vascular symptoms may need further evaluation.
What Can the Ultrasound Show?
A vascular ultrasound can provide information about blood flow and the condition of your blood vessels. Depending on the type of study, it may help your doctor evaluate concerns involving arteries or veins.
The examination may help identify:
- Narrowing or blockages that affect blood flow
- Blood clots in certain veins
- Abnormal blood flow patterns
- Changes in the structure of blood vessels
- Circulation problems affecting the legs or other areas
Vascular ultrasound can help when symptoms are unclear because it gives your healthcare provider information about how blood moves through your vessels.
For a broader look at its role in cardiovascular care, see how vascular ultrasound can support heart health.
Why Choose EBCVT?
Accurate vascular imaging depends on appropriate equipment and trained professionals. EBCVT’s vascular ultrasound lab uses high-resolution ultrasound with color and spectral Doppler capabilities.
Registered vascular technologists perform the examinations, while a board-certified vascular physician or radiologist reviews the images. Vascular ultrasound testing is available as part of EBCVT’s broader cardiovascular and vascular care in Danville, CA.
Schedule Your Vascular Ultrasound
Knowing what to expect can make your vascular ultrasound appointment feel less uncertain. If your doctor has recommended vascular testing, East Bay Cardiovascular and Thoracic Associates can provide the diagnostic evaluation you need in Danville, CA. Contact EBCVT to schedule your vascular ultrasound.
