Ultrasound technology has become increasingly available and affordable, so it’s no surprise that more and more people are using it in their everyday lives. One particularly useful application of ultrasound technology is vascular Ultrasound or Doppler – the practice of checking on blood vessels within the body. These sound waves can be used to test not only major arteries, but smaller vessels such as those in the eyes, brain, and liver as well. How do you know if you need vascular Ultrasound in Alamogordo?
What Is Vascular Ultrasound?
A non-invasive imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of vessels within the body. There are a variety of ways vascular ultrasound can be used. During a CTA, or computed tomography angiogram, an IV is put into your arm and contrast dye is given while doctors use CTA scans to look at arteries and blood flow throughout your body. Another option, especially in patients with chest pain, is an echocardiogram test. Doctors also sometimes use ultrasound when performing heart procedures such as cardiac catheterization or inserting stents. If you’re concerned about these issues, call your doctor today and set up an appointment for vascular ultrasound tests on your body.
Why Do I Need It?
vascular ultrasound Alamogordo, ultrasound imaging Alamogordo, check vascular ultrasound Alamogordo, Vascular Ultrasound Checking Mayo Clinic Diagnostic Imaging Services provides a variety of diagnostic services that use high-frequency sound waves to create images of your arteries and blood vessels. These include ultrasound — which uses real-time pulses of sound waves — as well as Doppler ultrasonography (an imaging technique that uses reflected sound waves) and angiography (which creates a detailed image of your blood vessels). Doppler is used primarily when searching for blockages or irregularities in blood flow within your arteries. The results from these tests can indicate if you are at risk for such conditions as heart attack or stroke.
When Should I Go?
Your doctor can help you figure out if you need a vascular ultrasound in Alamogordo. But first, what is it? A vascular ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging method that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of vessels within the body. Vessels—whether arteries or veins—conduct vibrations of high-frequency sounds, which enable them to be imaged without needing an invasive procedure like other imaging techniques do. The sound waves cause changes in blood flow and refraction, which then allows them to show up on an image that your doctor can interpret.
What Happens During My Visit?
Like most radiology departments, we perform vascular ultrasound imaging on our ultrasound equipment. The first thing that happens is that you’ll be asked to remove all metal objects from your person and take off anything with a metal zipper. Then you’ll lie down on a table that slides into our state-of-the-art ultrasound machine and put your feet into little footrests. You may hear some clicking or tapping noises; these are completely normal and come from our instrument adjusting itself before scanning. Next, a gel will be rubbed onto your skin so we can get a good image of your vessels and other organs.
What are the risks and benefits?
The only risk of vascular ultrasound is radiation exposure, however, very little radiation is involved. The amount of radiation received from a vascular ultrasound procedure is equal to one chest x-ray (the equivalent of less than 1 minute of exposure to natural background radiation). In general, it’s recommended that women not get an abdominal or pelvic exam within 2 weeks before or 2 weeks after having a transvaginal ultrasound. This precaution is based on data showing there may be an increased risk for ovarian cancer when imaging tests are performed during a woman’s reproductive years. Pregnant women should not have an ultrasound unless there is a medical reason since diagnostic ultrasounds can expose developing babies to too many sound waves.
What Happens After My Visit?
For most non-invasive vascular ultrasound procedures, you will be positioned on an exam table with a moderate amount of padding. Most exams are performed without any clothing and with minimal gowning. If a device is placed near your body, it will be covered by towels during scanning. Some exams require additional accessories such as gel or sandbags that are used to help position your body properly. You may need a translator for medical reasons but only if necessary; if English is not your first language, you should always ask about translation services before booking an appointment so that there are no surprises at check-in time. We’ve already checked Ultrasound Alamogordo so let’s move on…
Are There Any Precautions I Should Take Before My Test?
No, there are no precautions. However, you should inform your technician of any medications you take and if you have a history of heart disease or any other chronic condition that might require special consideration during the examination. You may be asked not to eat anything four hours before your test or drink liquids two hours before your test. If so, please follow these instructions carefully. If you do not follow them, your exam could be delayed or canceled altogether.
