Vascular Ultrasound
What it is
Vascular ultrasound, also called a duplex study, is a noninvasive test. Sound waves are used to assess the flow in the carotid arteries that feed blood to the brain, the abdominal aorta that feeds the lower body, the renal arteries that feed the kidneys, and the arteries that feed the legs.
What we learn
These studies can diagnose blockages in the arteries that feed the brain, increasing the risk of stroke. Blockages in the arteries that feed the kidneys can reduce kidney function and increase blood pressure. In the legs, the blockages can cause leg pain, especially in the calf with activity, and increase the risk of leg infections that do not heal well.
Vascular ultrasound also makes it possible to obtain an image of the abdominal aorta, the major blood vessel to the lower body. Sometimes that vessel enlarges and can reach the point where the vessel tears or bursts. In patients in whom that is a concern, it is possible to visualize that vessel and determine its size and the risk of a tearing or rupturing.
Services we offer
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Stress Testing
Exercise and chemical stress testing to assess for blockages and assessment of heart strength by gated blood pool scanning.
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Sleep Apnea and Sleep Studies
Diagnosis and treatment of obstructive sleep apnea and related diseases.
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Catheterization and Stenting
Diagnosis and treatment of coronary artery disease including cardiac catheterization and stent placement.
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Arrhythmias and their treatments
Diagnosis and treatment of arrhythmias including pacemaker and defibrillator placement and ablation procedures.
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Echocardiography
Cardiac ultrasound to visualize the heart using additional advanced techniques such as bubble or definity contrast as needed. Transesophageal ultrasound performed in the hospital as an outpatient procedure.
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Vascular Ultrasound
Evaluation of the carotid arteries and blood vessels of the abdomen, kidneys and legs.