Vascular Ultrasounds - Everything You Need to Know

What is a Vascular Ultrasound?

A Vascular Ultrasound or duplex study is non-invasive imaging of the blood vessels in your body. This test shows the blood flow in your arms, legs and neck. Ultrasound or high-frequency sound waves are used to create images of blood vessels and soft tissues. 

Why is a Vascular Ultrasound performed?

It is used to determine the blood flow in soft tissues, arms, neck and legs. Vascular Ultrasounds can help detect blockages in the arteries and veins, detect blood clots, narrowed blood vessels, and other vascular health conditions.

How do you prepare for a Vascular Ultrasound?

For anyone above the age of 18, it is recommended to not eat or drink anything eight hours prior to your Vascular Ultrasound examination. For anyone under the age of 18, it is recommended for four hours. Aside from this, there is no other preparation for this test. 

What can you expect during a Vascular Ultrasound?

It is recommended and asked by sonographers and doctors to remove any kind of jewelry or metal belongings from the area that is being imaged. The technician will apply gel on the area being examined and will brush the probe along the area. The complete imaging process can take anywhere from 25 to 30 minutes. 

What is the follow-up like for a Vascular Ultrasound?

We provide results of the Vascular Ultrasound at the same time as imaging. The follow-up procedure is all dependent upon the results of imaging. The follow-up will be recommended by the doctor in the hospital. 

What are the potential risks of a Vascular Ultrasound?

Unlike other scans such as CT scans and X-ray, Vascular Ultrasounds do not use ionizing radiation, therefore, imaging has no harmful effects on the patient.