Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound

What You Need to Know

Peripheral vascular ultrasound is a non-invasive diagnostic technique that uses high- frequency sound waves to produce images of the vascular system in the arms, legs, and other peripheral areas of the body. These images help detect any injuries or abnormalities in the blood vessels and assess blood circulation in these areas.

Why You Might Need a Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound

Peripheral vascular ultrasound is used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including:

Localised bulging of arteries (aneurysms)

Blood clots

Poor blood flow

Dissections between the layers of the arterial wall

Peripheral artery disease

Venous insufficiency

Deep vein thrombosis

Carotid artery disease

Narrowed blood vessels

Preparing for a Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound

Preparation for a peripheral vascular ultrasound includes the following steps:

Take your regular medications on the day of the examination unless advised otherwise by your doctor.

Avoid applying any lotion or powder to your arms and legs before the procedure.

Stop smoking a few hours before the test, as it can cause blood vessel constriction and may alter the test results.

Wear loose, comfortable clothing as you will need to remove all clothing from the arm or leg being tested. A sheet or gown may be provided.

The Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound Procedure

Here’s what to expect during the procedure:

1. Preparation: You will lie on your back on a padded table.

2. Gel Application: A clear gel will be applied to your arm or leg to help transmit the sound waves.

3. Transducer Use: An ultrasound transducer will be moved over your skin with slight pressure to obtain images of the arteries and veins. The sound waves generated by the transducer bounce off internal tissues and are detected by the receiver to produce real-time images.

4. Positioning: Your doctor may ask you to change positions to get a clearer image of the individual arteries and veins.

5. Duration: The procedure typically takes about an hour.

Post-Procedure Care for Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound

There is no special post-procedure care needed for a peripheral vascular ultrasound. You will be asked to wipe off the gel and can resume your normal activities immediately.

By understanding the peripheral vascular ultrasound process, you can better prepare for the procedure and know what to expect, ensuring a smoother experience and clearer results.