WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF LOWER ARTERIAL
IMAGING? The Lower Arterial Imaging test is
an Ultrasound study of the lower extremities. This test helps to determine
the severity of the peripheral vascular disease and is typically performed
following a PVR study. The exact location of the plaque, as well as how
much plaque is present (percent stenosis) can be identified.
Lower extremity ultrasound exams are used to evaluate peripheral vascular
disease. Peripheral vascular disease affects a large portion of the general
population, more so in patients with known cardiac disease. You may have
talked to your physician about swelling, redness, pain or cramping you are
experiencing when you walk or even while at rest. This pain, redness or
swelling can occur in the calves, thighs and buttocks. This pain can be
intermittent or constant, making it difficult for you to walk distances.
WHO ADMINISTERS THE STRESS TEST?
A
registered vascular
ultrasound technologist administers
this test.
HOW LONG WILL THE TEST TAKE?
The total amount of time this test will take is approximately 1 ½
hours.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY TEST? Nothing to eat or drink five
(5) hours prior to the test.
WHAT WILL I
EXPERIENCE DURING THE TEST? Ultrasound equipment is used to
image the arteries from the abdomen to the feet. Doppler is also used to
listen to the blood flow through each leg and several measurements are taken
to determine the amount of plaque in the arteries. This test is painless,
but pressure will be applied to enable the technologist to get adequate
images.
