Patient Frequently Asked Questions

What do I need to bring with me to my appointment?

• Government issued photo ID card
• Health insurance card/s or other documentation of insurance
• Referral/authorization form from your doctor
• Any prior medical reports the doctor has given you

What kind of exams does your vascular lab do?

We perform a medical diagnostic procedure that uses ultrasound called a vascular ultrasound exam. Vascular ultrasound is similar to the ultrasound that a pregnant woman gets to look at the fetus in her abdomen. Our exam uses sound waves to look at the flow of blood in your blood vessels. We are usually looking for blockages in your blood vessels.

Is the vascular ultrasound exam painful?

The exams that we perform in our vascular lab are mostly painless and non-invasive. Our vascular technologist will use a hand-held probe and gently place it directly on your skin. A water-based gel is used to help us look at the structures inside your body. We might have to apply some pressure with the probe to the area that we need to study. This might cause some pain and discomfort if you already have pain in that area, but we will do everything we can to minimize your discomfort.

How long will my exam take?

Exams vary in length depending on which one is being done. Most of our exams take an hour to do. Some of our exams that look at the blood flow in your abdomen and your legs might take an hour and a half to two hours.

When will I know the results of my examination?

The technologist will send the preliminary test results to your doctor immediately after your exam. The final report will be sent to your doctor, within a day or two, after our interpreting physician has reviewed your exam. Your doctor will contact you to discuss the exam and answer any questions you might have about the results.

How do I prepare for the exam?

Most of our exams do not require any preparation, but if we are going to look at the blood flow in your abdomen, then you need to fast beginning the night before the exam. The following exams require fasting:

• Abdominal aortic aneurysm
• Renal artery duplex
• Lower extremity arterial duplex
• Mesenteric artery duplex 
• Portal/splenic vein exam

Fasting means you do not eat or drink anything, beginning at midnight the night before the exam. Do not drink water unless you need to in order to take medicine, and only then with a small amount of water. Do not smoke or chew gum before the exam.

Insulin dependent diabetics should consult their doctor for a clear liquid breakfast.

Some patients find it helpful to bring a snack to eat directly after the exam.

Where can I park my car?

At all our lab locations, there are public parking garages available for your convenience.

How do I get to your vascular lab?

Get directions