Vascular testing is performed using specialized noninvasive diagnostic vascular ultrasound testing equipment. Arterial and venous studies are performed to detect vascular disease. Cerebrovascular, peripheral arterial, aortic, renal, and venous examinations are performed. Vascular Laboratory testing is an important component of diagnosing vascular disease.
The Vascular Laboratory is certified by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL). All testing is performed according to standard recognized protocols approved by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories.
Noninvasive ultrasound machines take pictures of blood vessels and blood flow in these vessels with color Doppler and pulsed Doppler signals. Segmental pressures and pulse volume recordings are performed to locate areas of blockage in the arms or legs. Specific tests are performed according to the suspected vascular problem.
- Specific tests can be performed for thoracic outlet syndrome. These procedures are generally painless and can help determine if blood vessel disease is present, its location and the severity of the disease.
- Duplex carotid ultrasound studies. Noninvasive diagnostic vascular studies of the carotid arteries are performed using specialized noninvasive diagnostic vascular ultrasound machines. Pictures are taken of the carotid arteries. Blood flow in these vessels is measured with color Doppler and pulsed Doppler signal. This procedure is painless and can help to determine if blockage is present in the carotid artery, which provides blood to the brain. Studies are repeated semiannually or annually, depending on the degree of blockage, to assess for progression of disease and risk of developing stroke or stroke symptoms.
The Vascular Laboratory is certified by the ICAVL for the performance of extracranial arterial studies. All testing is performed according to standard recognized protocols approved by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories.
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