Vascular Ultrasound Exams in Danville
Conveniently located to serve Danville
At East Bay Cardiovascular and Thoracic Associates, we regularly perform a number of diagnostic studies at our vascular ultrasound lab in Danville. Our vascular ultrasound lab studies are each designed to evaluate various conditions affecting the cerebrovascular system, the lower extremities, and the abdominal vessels.
What Are Vascular Ultrasound Exams?
Vascular ultrasound labs assess blood vessels, veins, and arteries in the arms, abdomen, neck, and legs. They usually require imaging certain blood vessels using duplex ultrasound. They are non-invasive tests that use high-frequency sound waves to show detailed images of blood vessels and soft tissues.
Do I Need a Vascular Ultrasound Lab Exam?
People may need a vascular ultrasound lab if they have symptoms affecting their lower extremities, cerebrovascular system, and abdominal vessels. They may have symptoms like:
- Muscle atrophy
- Burning sensation in the legs
- Leg sores that do not heal
- Pain in the hips, buttocks, calves, or thighs
What Happens at a Vascular Ultrasound Appointment?
When you come in for a vascular ultrasound lab exam, you will lie on the exam table. Lubricating gel will be applied to your skin in the areas where the veins or arteries need to be evaluated. Then, a special probe will be placed against your skin, moving it all over the examined area.
When the vascular ultrasound lab exam is over, the lubricating gel will be wiped off your skin. You can resume your regular activities right after the exam.
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Evaluation of the Cerebrovascular
- Carotid Exam: The purpose of this exam is to evaluate the carotid arteries and determine the presence of any narrowing or blockages. Common indication for those that suffer from carotid artery disease may experience: visual disturbances, dizziness, one sided numbness or weakness in the limbs, or stroke.
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Evaluation of the Lower Extremities
- Lower Extremity Arterial Exam: The purpose of this exam is to evaluate the arteries in the legs and determine the presence of any blockages. Common indications for people that suffer with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) will generally experience: pain while walking, rest pain, ulcers, and other symptoms.
- Lower Extremity Venous Reflux Exam: The purpose of this exam is to evaluate the veins in the legs and determine the functionality of the vein valves. When the valves do not work correctly, one may begin to suffer from a condition known as chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Common indication for those that suffer from CVI may experience: swelling, pain, discoloration of the skin, ulcers, and varicose veins.
- Lower Extremity Venous Exam for DVT (deep vein thrombosis): The purpose of this exam is to evaluate the veins in the legs and determine the presence or absence of DVT, also known as blood clots. Common indications for those that may suffer from a DVT may experience: sudden onset of pain, sudden onset of swelling, warmth, and redness.
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Evaluation of the Abdominal Vessels
- Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Exam (AAA): The purpose of this exam is to evaluate the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries for any presence of significant blockages and most importantly, aneurysms. The most frequent complication and danger of an abdominal aneurysm is rupture. There are no common indicators or symptoms for an AAA, as they are incidentally discovered during a different exam.
- Mesenteric Exam: The purpose of this exam is to evaluate the blood supply to the large and small intestines, also known as mesenteric ischemia. This exam determines any narrowing or possible blockages. Common indications for those that may suffer from mesenteric ischemia may experience: history of dull, achy, or cramping abdominal pain after meals.
- Renal Exam: The purpose of this exam is to evaluate the blood flow to the kidneys and also the arteries within the kidneys. This exam determines any narrowing or possible blockages, also known as renovascular hypertension. Common indications for those that may suffer from renovascular hypertension may experience: controlled or not well controlled high blood pressure.
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Other Ultrasound Exams
- Dialysis Access Exam: This exam is performed on patients with kidney disease that may have a dialysis access fistula or graft. This exam determines the presence of any narrowing or possible blockages.
- Bypass Graft Exam: This exam is performed on patients with existing bypass grafts. This exam determines the presence of any narrowing of possible blockages within the graft.
How Much Do Vascular Ultrasound Lab Exams Cost?
The price of a vascular ultrasound lab exam varies based on the specific exams performed. Insurance companies typically cover the cost of these diagnostic procedures.
Learn More During a Consultation
If you suspect that you are suffering from a vascular condition and would like to learn more about our vascular ultrasound lab in Danville, contact us today. We will be happy to schedule an appointment for a consultation, where we can discuss the best diagnostic options for you.
