Vascular Ultrasound Imaging
Our vascular ultrasound services provide real-time, moving images of your body’s cardiovascular system by bouncing sound waves off it. With no radiation involved, we gain invaluable insight into the construction and function of your blood vessels, enabling us to monitor blood flow to organs and tissues. This comprehensive evaluation aids in identifying blockages, abnormalities, clots, plaque, and emboli, facilitating precise repairs and targeted interventions when necessary.
Getting an adequate look at specific veins and arteries also helps us know if you are a good candidate for procedures such as angioplasty. We can use this information to review the success of grafts or bypasses. Images may reveal a blood clot, which we can treat in a variety of ways (including blood thinners) to prevent clots from traveling to critical parts of your body such as the lungs (embolism), heart (blood flow block or heart attack) or brain (stroke).
What Must I Do to Prepare for the Echo Vascular Test?
When it comes to preparing for an echo vascular test, there are a few important steps you should follow to ensure the most accurate and effective results. The echo vascular test is a non-invasive procedure that uses sound waves to create detailed images of your heart and blood vessels. To make sure you are well-prepared for the test, please consider the following guidelines:
- Consult your physician: It is crucial to speak with your physician or cardiologist about the specific preparations required for your echo vascular test. They will provide you with detailed instructions tailored to your individual case, as different tests may have unique requirements.
- Medication and dietary restrictions: Your doctor may advise you on any medications you need to adjust or avoid prior to the test. Some medications can interfere with the results, so it’s important to inform your doctor about any prescription, over-the-counter, or herbal medications you are taking. Additionally, certain dietary restrictions, such as fasting before the exam, may be necessary. Your doctor will guide you on these aspects.
- Clothing choice: For an echo vascular test, it’s recommended to wear loose and comfortable clothing. You may be asked to remove your upper garments during the procedure, so wearing a two-piece outfit can make the process more convenient.
What Can I Expect for the Echo Ultrasound Exam?
A highly trained technologist (sonographer) will assist you in getting situated and comfortable on the table, explain the procedure, and answer questions you may have. Depending on the area to be examined, you may be asked to remove certain articles of clothing and/or change in to a hospital gown. Before the exam begins, a warm gel will be applied to your skin, eliminating air between the ultrasound transducer and your skin, thus facilitating the sound waves as they transmit into your body. The sonographer will glide the transducer over your skin to capture the appropriate images. To allow for the best views or the area of interest, you may be asked to change positions throughout the exam. Once the images are captured, the gel is cleaned from the skin and the exam is complete.
Will I Be Exposed to Radiation?
No radiation is used during an ultrasound exam. The exam is painless, with no side- or aftereffects.
How Long Will the Exam Take?
Depending on the area of the body to be examined, an ultrasound exam generally takes 30 to 60 minutes, although some exams may take longer.
How Will I Know the Results of the Echo Vascular Test?
Following your exam, a radiologist specializing in ultrasound will analyze and interpret the images from your exam and prepare a full report. This report will be sent directly to your physician, who will share the results with you. To request a copy of the report, you may contact your physician’s office or Medical Arts Hospital’s Medical Records Department at 806-872-2183.
How Do I Schedule an Appointment?
The physician’s office will either contact the Ultrasound department to schedule your appointment or ask you to make the arrangements. If your physician asks you to make the arrangements, please contact us at 806-872-2183 and have your physician’s order available when you call. We will need to know the type of ultrasound and the diagnosis your physician has indicated for the procedure.
What Do I Need to Bring With Me on the Day of the Exam?
To ensure a smooth and efficient experience on the day of your exam, it is important to come prepared with the necessary documents and information. Here’s a list of items you will need to bring with you:
- Physician’s Order – Please remember to bring the physician’s order or referral form for the exam. This document is essential as it provides specific instructions from your healthcare provider regarding the type of exam you require.
- Personal Identification – It is crucial to bring a valid form of personal identification, such as a driver’s license, passport, or government-issued ID card. This helps confirm your identity and ensures that your medical records are accurately associated with your name.
- Insurance or Medicare Information – If you have health insurance or Medicare coverage, be sure to bring your insurance card or any relevant documentation. This allows the healthcare facility to process your claims correctly and helps you receive the maximum benefits entitled to you. If you are unsure about the specifics of your coverage, it is advisable to contact your insurance provider in advance.
By ensuring you have these essential items in hand when you arrive for your exam, you can help streamline the check-in process and avoid any unnecessary delays. It is always a good idea to double-check with your healthcare provider or the facility where you will undergo the exam if there are any additional items they may require.
Remember, being well-prepared not only saves time but also contributes to a more effective and comprehensive examination.
If you’re seeking exceptional care and accurate diagnostic imaging for your cardiovascular health, Medical Arts Hospital is your premier destination. Our team of skilled professionals utilizes the best equipment and expertise in vascular ultrasound to provide detailed assessments and personalized treatment plans. Contact us today to schedule your appointment and experience the difference firsthand.