Test Preparations: Vascular Ultrasound
About vascular ultrasounds
During a vascular ultrasound, sound waves are transmitted through the tissues of the area being examined. These sound waves reflect off blood cells moving within the blood vessels, allowing the reading physician to calculate their speed. The sound waves are recorded and displayed on a computer screen.
Before the test
No preparation required.
During the test
The technician will ask you to lie still on the examination table with your head slightly elevated. The technician will spread a special gel over the area to be examined and will press the ultrasound wand against your skin and move it over the area the doctor would like to see. You may hear a whooshing sound that the machine makes to represent the blood moving through your body. The computer that is linked to the ultrasound equipment generates the images requested by your physician.
After the test
Once the test is completed, you are able to return to your normal activities.
Your requisition form
To avoid delays on the day of your test, ensure that you bring your health card and your requisition. Also, confirm that your doctor included the following on your requisition form:
- Patient full name, sex, date of birth
- Physician name and signature