Going For An Ultrasound

Our clinic or your doctor has requested that you go to our Diagnostic Vascular Unit (DVU) for an ultrasound before you visit one of our physicians. Check your appointment to verify if you are scheduled for your ultrasound in the DVU in University Hospital, Floor 2, Room 2B242 or in the DVU in the CVC, Call (888) 287-1082 if you need to know where your appointment is scheduled. In this unit, our technologists will perform a non-invasive ultrasound study that will enable your provider to determine the best course of treatment for you.

You will be asked to put on a gown if your study is on your abdomen or legs, or if above the neck, they will provide a towel to keep the gel from getting on your clothing. In the location of the study, the technologist will apply some gel to your skin to enhance the reception of the ultrasound probe. The probe is about 2.5. x 1.5., and they will place it on your skin over the affected vessel. They will apply some gentle pressure to obtain the images they need for your physician. This usually does not inflict any pain.

Studies vary, some may involve doing some light exercise on a treadmill to evaluate how that may change your blood flow patterns. Some will involve measuring the effect of pressure on your arms and legs, and possibly your fingers and toes. This will feel just like a blood pressure cuff feels on your arm.

Most studies will take 15 or 20 minutes at the longest, but may be up to an hour, especially if they involve exercise. After your study, you will be asked to wait while the technologist enters the summary of their findings into the computer. They will provide a print-out of the results for you to take to your physician.

We will do our best to take you at your appointment time. Because we are flexible, seeing patients urgently if needed, we cannot always predict our workload. Please be patient if you are asked to wait beyond your appointment time, and our staff will see you as quickly as possible.