Vascular ultrasound tests

Exam Preparation

You should prepare for the procedure by wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. Depending on the location of the blood vessels being examined, you may be asked to changed into a patient gown.

Follow any instructions provided by your physician or the imaging center/department which may include fasting.

During The Procedure

The vascular technologists  will begin the procedure by position the patient on an examination table, usually lying face-up. They will then apply a water-based gel over the area of interest to allow the sound waves to pass through the skin efficiently. A transducer is placed on top of the gel and manipulated across the area and produces vessel information in the form of images and graphs. The information will be recorded and stored on the lab’s chosen media to be reviewed by the reading physician.

Depending on the information needed and ordered by the referring physician, further testing may include varying manipulation of the vessels, obtaining systolic blood pressures at various locations, and may even include some form of exercising.

There is generally no pain associated with these procedures; however, pre-existing discomfort may be aggravated.

Once Complete

Once the technologist has completed the examination, you may be asked to dress and wait while the images are reviewed. It is not uncommon for immediate dismissal given the ability of the technologist or physician to view the images as they are acquired.

The overall exam experience will last approximately 30-45 minutes with more time needed for more complexed testing or findings.

Physician Interpretation

A physician, specifically trained in the review and interpretation of vascular ultrasound, will analyze all images and graphs obtained and provide a signed report of the findings to your physician. It is not uncommon for some results to be shared immediately following the exam.

Last Modified: 10/15/2010
Created: 08/23/2010