Peripheral Vascular Ultrasound

What is peripheral vascular ultrasound?

Peripheral vascular ultrasound is a type of noninvasive imaging that provides a detailed representation of your blood vessels and other soft tissues. The process requires no type of incisions and no radiation. 

Ultrasound technology uses sound waves to create imaging. A transducer device directs harmless sound waves into a small area of your body. As those sound waves encounter various tissue types, they create echoes that bounce back to the device, which collects those sounds and transforms them into “pictures” of your tissues. 

The sounds gathered during ultrasound also let your practitioner better understand how well your blood is flowing through the targeted vessels. Peripheral vascular ultrasound focuses on assessing circulation in your neck, arms, or legs.   

What kinds of symptoms might prompt my doctor to perform peripheral vascular ultrasound?

Peripheral vascular ultrasound is used to help diagnose a number of different health issues, including:

• Varicose veins
• Carotid artery disease
• Atherosclerosis
• Deep vein thrombosis
• Blood clots
• Vascular disease
• Chronic venous insufficiency

Some of the symptoms that might prompt your practitioner to suggest peripheral vascular ultrasound include:

• Numbness or weakness in your arms or legs
• Changes in the color of your skin 
• Sensations of pain or aching when you use your arms or legs
• Abnormally shiny skin on your legs
• Weak pulse in your legs or feet
• Muscle atrophy
• Sores on your legs or feet that won’t heal properly

Peripheral vascular ultrasound is a simple imaging test that gives your provider insight into blood flow. 

Is peripheral vascular ultrasound a painful experience?

There is no pain associated with having peripheral vascular ultrasound. Your practitioner begins by applying a clear, odorless gel to your skin before gliding the handheld transducer across your skin. 

You might feel some gentle pressure as your practitioner presses the transducer against your skin, but it doesn’t hurt. You might also hear the sound of your blood flowing during the ultrasound. 

One of the reasons why peripheral vascular ultrasound is such a great diagnostic tool is that it delivers immediate imaging. Your practitioner can immediately assess your results and determine if additional testing is needed or create a prompt treatment plan. 

There is no need for anesthesia or recovery time. You can resume normal activities immediately after your visit. If you have additional questions or concerns, call the office to book a visit, or schedule online today.

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