Vascular Ultrasound: A Valuable Diagnostic Tool

Vascular ultrasound is a valuable diagnostic imaging tool that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the body’s arteries and veins. Part of the exam may include a Doppler ultrasound technique that assesses the body’s circulatory system in order to identify blood clots and recognize blockages in the veins or arteries.

Basic Ultrasounds

According to the Center for Vascular Medicine, ultrasound is a painless as well as safe diagnostic imaging technique that can identify vascular disease. With the special Doppler ultrasound technique an image of the blood flow in a vessel can be produced. In effect, early detection of blood clots and blockages may help with the prevention of various diseases.

Minimally Invasive Testing

The majority of vascular procedures are minimally invasive. In fact, they are typically performed in an out-patient facility lasting from 30 to 60 minutes. In order to make certain that the images are clear you quietly lay down during the exam. A warm and water-based gel is then placed on the skin or the ultrasound transducer. The specialist or sonographer will then move the transducer around the area in order to get a clear image.

Numerous Benefits

Vascular ultrasounds have a large array of benefits. In addition, vascular ultrasounds have no known side effects and no risks. Some of the benefits include:

A non-evasive and painless technique (see note*)
Does not use ionizing radiation during the procedure
The ultrasound images are in real-time and are shown as they happen
Ultrasound is easy to use and more cost effective than other imaging procedures
Unlike x-ray images, ultrasounds offer a clear picture of the body’s soft tissues
The movement and framework of the body’s organs and structures are visual and can also be recorded

Note: The term non-evasive means that the procedure does not involve the use of anesthesia or needles. Likewise, there are no contrast dyes or radiation methods needed for the exam.

Additional Health Benefits

Not only can a vascular ultrasound help identify blood clots and blockages in the veins they can also help spot plaque in the arteries. Equally, this amazing ultramodern imagery can be utilized for planning a bypass technique that involves blood vessels like kidney (renal) artery bypass. There are numerous types of blockages that can be detected with the use of a vascular ultrasound such as blood clots in the lungs, blockages in the neck (prevent strokes) and other vein obstructions. In addition, vascular ultrasound is frequently used as a follow-up procedure such as after a stent or a bypass graft.

When to See a Specialist

Most all specialists agree that you should schedule a checkup if you have any warnings signs of vein issues. In fact, there are several warning signs to look for:

Varicose veins run in the family
Your legs feel heavy and tired
You have high blood pressure problems
Your legs burn, itch or are discolored, especially near the ankles

Atlanta Vascular and Vein Center

Although veins disease generally cannot be reversed, early detection is vital for the prevention of more serious issues. At the Atlanta Vascular and Vein Center, Amish Tilara, M.D. puts great emphases on prevention, restoration and continual function. Further, Dr. Tilara has made it a main objective to listen and understand each patient’s medical concern.

When it comes to vein checkups and vascular ultrasounds, the patients are in a stress-free environment that is both informative and relaxed. At the Atlanta Vascular and Vein Center, Amish Tilara, M.D. can offer a non-evasive and pain-free technique that displays imagery in real-time for further assessment if needed. In the same way, Dr. Tilara’s expertise in vein and vascular procedures can help identify numerous vein disorders and issues like blockages in the neck, blood clots in the lungs and other vein obstructions.

For easy access, the Atlanta Vascular and Vein Center is located in Lawrenceville, GA and serves the Metro Atlanta area such as Grayson, Duluth and Dacula.

Note: This article is not intended to replace any type of professional medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns about phlebitis, make an appointment at the Atlanta Vascular and Vein Center with Amish Tilara, M.D.