Non-Invasive Testing:
Lower
Pulse Volume Recorder Rest or Stress
LOWER PULSE VOLUME
RECORDER (PVR), REST OR STRESS
WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF A LOWER PULSE
VOLUME RECORDER (PVR) REST OR STRESS TEST? A PVR study indicates the presence
or absence of arterial disease in the lower extremities.
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 performs the test. A certified
registered exercise physiologist will assist the ultrasound tech in the case
of a Stress PVR.
HOW LONG WILL THE TEST TAKE?
The total amount of time this test will take is approximately one hour.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY TEST? No preparation is necessaryunless you are
having the Stress PVR. If you are having the stress test, please do not eat
2 hours prior to the test, but continue your medication regimen and bring a
list of your medications with you. In addition, please wear comfortable
pants and shoes appropriate for walking or riding a stationary bike.
WHAT WILL I
EXPERIENCE DURING THE TEST? Blood pressure cuffs are placed in
various positions on arms and legs and inflated. While the cuff is inflated
measurements of the blood “volume” and “blood pressure” are recorded.
Doppler is also used to listen to the blood flow through each leg. The
patient may experience some discomfort during the inflation of the cuff
around the thigh, similar to when a blood pressure cuff is inflated on the
arm.In the case of the Stress PVR, you will
also do some exercise with more measurements done immediately upon
finishing.
