Vascular ultrasound is used to examine the structures of the veins and arteries and the blood flow through these vessels. Doppler ultrasound is used to assess the direction, volume and quality of blood flow with the help of colour mapping and spectral analysis. This aids in distinguishing venous clots and arterial plaques and the degree of blockage caused or the constriction of blood flow. Vascular imaging also aids in determining and planning treatment procedures such as bypass, stents etc. and provides a non-invasive tool for follow ups.
What preparation is required?
- For an abdominal vascular ultrasound, the patient should not eat or drink for 8 hours prior to the scan.
- However, the patient is allowed to drink water.
What to expect during a vascular ultrasound?
- Vascular ultrasound exams are generally performed lying down.
- Additional scans is other positions may be required to optimize blood vessel filling. A gel is applied to the skin on the body part to be examined to improve contact between the skin and the transducer, which is then moved along the vessel pathways.
- This helps assessing the blood vessel structures as well as the flow and volume of blood through these vessels.
- The Doppler ultrasound facilitates in colour imaging of direction, quality and pattern of blood flow.
- An audible signal assists in the detection of normal vs abnormal changes in the blood flow.
- Some images may also be acquired with the patient in the upright position with a compression, breath hold, or after brief
- exercise to see their resulting effects on the blood flow pattern.
Is there anything else I should know?
You are requested to bring a copy of the medical history of the patient, including recent lab work reports and any previous imaging scans that may have been prescribed by your doctor.
