Vascular Ultrasound

Vascular Ultrasound :

Modern ultrasound machines show a black and white images of the soft tissues. They can superimpose a colour image of blood flow upon this. Using Doppler, we can measure the speed and direction of the blood flow.

Preparation for this Scan?

 There is no special preparation for this scan.

How long will it take?

On average the scan takes 30-40 minutes.

Who will scan me?

Your scan will be performed by either a Sonographer (a technical who is trained in ultrasound) or a Radiologist (a Doctor who specialises in medical imaging).

After the scan the Radiologist will send a report to your referring Specialist, General Practitioner or Physiotherapist. The images we record during the scan on CD will be given to you after your examination or posted to you.

Indications for Vascular Ultrasound:

Some of the indications are given below. Your referring Doctor can discuss the need for colour doppler ultrasound with a Radiologist.

Stroke:
Many temporary or permanent strokes are caused by abnormal blood flow in the neck. These are easily examined with colour Doppler ultrasound.

Kidneys/High Blood Pressure:
The blood flow to, and within the kidney can be assessed to look for a cause for high blood pressure.

Arterial Bypass Grafts:
Regular (6-12 monthly) examination of these grafts is essential. The detection of early graft failure can allow the graft to be revised before it fails.
 
Varicose Veins:
These are usually done on referral from a surgeon. The type of varicose vein abnormalitites can be mapped and marked pre-operatively to help your Surgeon.

These are the main uses. Other applications can be discussed with the Radiologist at Hamilton Radiology.

See also:

Carotid Ultrasound
Duplex Doppler Venous Leg Scan
Echocardiogram
Ultrasound Scan for DVT

Please settle your account on the day of the examination.

Contact Hamilton Radiology to make an appointment. Phone 07-839 4909 or 0800-HAMRAD (426 723)