Vascular Ultrasound

What Is a Vascular Ultrasound?

A vascular ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the blood vessels in your body, including the arteries and veins in your neck, arms, and legs. It shows how blood flows through these vessels and can reveal blockages, narrowing, or blood clots. Like other ultrasounds, it uses no radiation and is completely safe.

Why Is It Done?

Your doctor may order a vascular ultrasound if you have symptoms of poor circulation, such as leg pain when walking, swelling, numbness, or coldness in your limbs. A carotid ultrasound (of the neck arteries) is often recommended if you’ve had a stroke, mini-stroke (TIA), or have risk factors like high blood pressure or diabetes. It’s also used to check for blood clots in the legs (deep vein thrombosis).

What to Expect

You’ll lie on an exam table while a technician applies warm gel to the area being examined. A handheld device is gently moved along your skin to capture images of your blood vessels. You may hear a pulsing sound. That’s the sound of your blood flow being measured. The test usually takes 30 to 45 minutes and causes no discomfort.

How to Prepare

For most vascular ultrasounds, no preparation is needed. If your abdominal blood vessels are being examined, you may be asked to fast for 8 to 12 hours beforehand. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being tested. Take your medications as usual unless your doctor advises otherwise.