Explanation
An arterial ultrasound is a safe and painless procedure that is done in our office and can be done in
less than 30 to 45 minutes. Our certified technicians will use an ultrasound machine that uses sound
waves to examine the structure and function of the your arteries. This test will help us determine if the
blood is flowing properly through your legs and that the arteries are of normal size and strength.
The ultra sound study is performed by placing a small device called a transducer against the skin on
the area to be examined. In order to get a better ultrasound picture, a gel is applied to the skin where
the transducer will be placed. This requires the area to be exposed for the exam. We understand your
desire for modesty and we will do our best to make sure the exam is performed in a way to provide the
most privacy possible. After the required images are completed, the gel will be removed and the study
completed.
Preparation
While there are no specific preparations required, you can take the following steps to prepare for your
appointment:
• You should call the day before the exam to confirm the time and location of the exam.
Special Note: If you are having other studies performed during your visit, please follow the guidelines for
those studies.
Unless your doctor provides any additional instructions, this is all you should need to do.
Treatment Options
Treatment options can include medications or if severe enough, possible interventions. If an
intervention is required, we use a minimally invasive non-surgical approach which provides our patients
with substantially lower cost procedures, significantly less risks, quicker recover times and less patient
discomfort.
Your treatment options will be thoroughly explained to you by your Doctor.
CHICAGO CARDIOLOGY INSTITUTE
"The premier center for the treatment of Cardiovascular and Peripheral Vascular disease"
New Peripheral
Intervention
Center
Intervention
Center
Venous Ultrasound Lower Extremity
Place mouse pointer over images to zoom in.
Definition
The blood vessels in your legs that carry the blood back to
your heart are call veins. Within these veins are one way
valves that allow the blood to flow in only one direction,
towards your heart. Sometimes these valves break down
and allow the blood to also go back down into your legs.
This means that the blood is not able to flow back to the
heart properly. This blood begins to collect and cause the
vein walls to swell as it tries to accomodate this extra blood.
This can lead to some toxicity in your legs. These swollen
veins are called varicose veins. If not treated they can
cause pain, cramping, itching and burning, swelling,
throbbing and if not treated can cause sores called venous
ulcers.
When proper flow is disrupted, the extra blood can clot blocking the flow. This usually occurs in the
deep veins and in known as deep venous thrombosis (DVT). This can be a dangerous condition as
this clot could dislodge and travel to the lungs causing a clot in the lungs which can be fatal.
Your Doctor may require a an venous ultrasound to see if there are any abnormalities present and
which treatment options may be necessary.