Before coming in

  • If you are unable to make your scheduled appointment, please call the office by 3:00 pm the day prior to your test.
  • No special preparation is required for most studies.
  • Renal/Abdominal Vessel Studies require the following preparation: No food after midnight the night before the test. For late afternoon testing, have dry toast and clear liquids for an early breakfast. Take your normal medications with small sips of water. Take Gas-X the night before and the morning of the test.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes and two-piece clothing (without metal snaps). Do not wear jewelry.
  • Bring all medications, or a list of medications, for review.
  • Friends/family are welcome to accompany you to the office but are not allowed in the testing area due to our privacy policy.

Vascular studies

Vascular studies are noninvasive tests which measure the blood flow in your blood vessels (arteries/veins). A handheld device called a transducer is pressed against your skin and high frequency sound waves are sent through your skin. The waves bounce off your blood cells and other inner tissues, are sent to a computer, and then the computer creates an image or video from the information.

Typically, a Doppler ultrasound is used for vascular studies. A doppler ultrasound can help diagnose a variety of cardiovascular conditions.

  • Allow approximately 1 hour for the test.
  • Test results will be communicated to you by your physician.

Related Conditions

  • Cardiac Arrhythmia
  • Blood clots
  • Blocked arteries
  • Decreased circulation in your legs
  • Bulging arteries
  • Narrow arteries
  • Congenital defects in your heart valves
  • Heart valve defects

Potential Risks

There are no known risks related to vascular studies.