Non-Invasive Vascular Laboratory

 

Important Information About Peripheral Vascular Testing

Peripheral vascular studies are safe and painless diagnostic procedures which allow your physician to screen the arterial and venous circulatory systems for various disease processes.

 

The procedure is done with both photocells (invisible infrared light waves) and ultrasound (high frequency sound waves) which record light reflections and sound waves of the arteries and veins. The sound waves and reflected light patterns are converted to signals which appear on a strip chart or television like screen. From the waveforms that are produced, it is possible to determine if there are any blockages present.

 

The exam will require you to lie quietly. Various blood pressure cuffs will be placed on the arms and legs. There may also be a small probe taped to a finger or toe during the exam. The blood pressure cuffs will be inflated on a rotation basis and pressure measurements will be taken at various locations along the upper and/or lower extremities, depending on the type of exam ordered.

 

Carotid Artery Testing

This is a test the utilizes ultrasound (high frequency sound waves) to see the carotid arteries. From this test we will be able to see and hear the blood flowing through the vessel.

This is also a pain free test that will be done with you in a reclining position. The test takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour.

 

Special Instructions

IThere are no special instructions for any of these tests. You should arrive approximately 5 minutes before testing to fill out some simple information papers.

 

Reasons These Tests Might Be Ordered

There are a variety of reasons that tests of this nature might be ordered. The most common reasons are:

• Pre and Post-Op surgical evaluations
• Absent pulses in your arms or legs
• Swelling
• Pain
• Impotency
• Diabetes
• Difference in Blood Pressure from arm to arm
• Ulcers on your arms or legs
• TIA's