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The Vascular Laboratory at Greene Memorial Hospital offers comprehensive, non-invasive ultrasonic evaluation of the arteries and veins using the latest advances in ultrasound technology.
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound is the use of sound waves to produce images and/or evaluate blood flow. The ultrasound equipment allows viewing of the organs, blood vessels and surrounding tissue as well as analysis of the blood flow. Ultrasound is non-invasive and safe. There are no known health risks or side effects from ultrasound testing.
How is the Test Performed?
You will lie on your back and gel will be applied to the area to be tested to prevent air from getting trapped between the ultrasound source and your skin. A small probe, called a transducer, will then be moved over the gelled surface. The examination will be performed by an experienced professional.
Types of Vascular Exams
CAROTID ARTERIES:
An ultrasound examination to evaluate the arteries in the neck, which are responsible for carrying blood flow to the brain.
Exam Time: Approximately 60 minutes
Patient Preparation: None
LOWER & UPPER VENOUS:
An ultrasound examination of the veins in the legs or arms to determine whether or not a blood clot is present. The legs are scanned from the groin to the ankle while the arms are scanned from the neck to the wrist.
Exam Time: Approximately 60 minutes
Patient Preparation: None
LOWER & UPPER EXTREMITY ARTERIAL:
(There are two methods of testing for arterial disease; the direct and indirect methods)
Direct Testing
An ultrasound duplex examination, which allows direct viewing of the arteries in the legs or arms to evaluate for the presence, location and severity of peripheral arterial disease (blockages). For lower extremity testing, the abdominal aorta may also be evaluated with ultrasound. Direct duplex testing is also performed for evaluation of hemodialysis and peripheral by-pass grafts. The legs are scanned with an ultrasound transducer from the level of the groin to the ankles and images of the arteries are obtained along with simultaneous information about the blood flow. Blood pressures are also taken both arms and ankles. For upper arterial testing, blood pressures are taken in both arms. The affected arm will be scanned from the shoulder to the wrist.
Indirect Testing
This method of testing allows indirect assessment of the lower or upper extremities through physiologic examination.
A series of blood pressure cuffs and a special Doppler ultrasound transducer are used to obtain blood pressure information of thighs, calves and ankles as well as the arms. A mathematic calculation of these pressures determines the presence or absence of significant arterial blockage.
The upper extremity arteries are evaluated in much the same manner. Blood pressure cuffs are placed on the bicep and forearm of each arm. Pressures are obtained to establish the presence or absence of arterial disease.
Exam Time: Approximately 60 Minutes
Patient Preparation: For lower arterial direct testing (duplex), the exam may include scanning portions of the abdominal and pelvic areas. The patient should not eat or drink anything for 6 hours prior to the exam. (Patients may take prescribed medications with a small amount of water)
Phone:
(937) 352-2697
Hours:
To make an appointment.
(937) 352-2200
Location:
Greene Memorial Hospital