Vascular Ultrasound

Vascular Ultrasound Overview

The vascular specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic provide patients access to state-of-the-art imaging technology used to help accurately diagnose and treat conditions involving the arteries, veins and lymphatic systems that are responsible for carrying blood from the heart throughout the rest of the body.

What is a vascular ultrasound?

A vascular ultrasound is a non-invasive evaluation of the body’s circulatory system. It uses high-frequency sound waves to produce detailed images of soft tissues and blood vessels. Ultrasound imaging is a safe and effective diagnostic technique as there is no exposure to radiation.

This test is recommended to assess the blood circulation in the arteries and veins of the arms, neck and legs. It can detect blood clots as well as blockages within the arteries and veins. The enhanced images allow physicians to make a precise diagnosis and determine the best treatment plan for each patient.

What are the different types of vascular ultrasounds?

There are various types of vascular ultrasounds available to you at Hattiesburg Clinic, including the following:

Abdominal vasculature ultrasound (Aortic Ultrasound) – provides imaging from the aorta (the main blood vessel carrying blood away from the heart) to the abdominal region

Carotid ultrasound (Carotid Duplex) – provides imaging of the carotid arteries to detect any blockages

Renal artery ultrasound – provides imaging of the blood flow to the kidneys and their blood vessels

Mesenteric duplex scan – provides imaging of the arteries to the liver, spleen, stomach and intestine

Upper and lower extremity arterial ultrasound – provides imaging of the arms and legs

What conditions can a vascular ultrasound detect?

Vascular specialists use ultrasounds to examine the blood flow to organs. Ultrasounds can diagnose the following conditions:

Atherosclerosis – hardening of arteries from the buildup of plaque
Blood clots – semi-solid masses that form in your veins and arteries
Carotid artery disease – the buildup of plaque blocking the blood flow in your artery, increasing your risk of a stroke
Chronic venous insufficiency – damaged valves in your legs that impact the blood flow to your heart and instead cause it to pool in your legs, causing swelling and ulcers
Deep vein thrombosis – a blood clot in a vein located deep within your body
Extracranial carotid artery aneurysm – a bulge in one of the arteries supplying blood to the brain
Peripheral artery disease – accumulation of plaque in the arteries in your legs or arms
Vascular disease – buildup of plaque blocking or causing the blood flow to slow down in your arteries or veins
Varicose veins – enlarged blood vessels that appear below the skin’s surface of your lower extremities

You may need an ultrasound if you are having symptoms including a burning sensation in your legs, pain in your buttocks, hips, thighs or calves, ulcer-like sores on your legs that are not healing or muscle atrophy.

Connect With a Member of Our Team

When you choose Hattiesburg Clinic, you are choosing top-quality care from a comprehensive team with specialized expertise and extensive training. If you or a loved one suspect that you may be experiencing a vascular issue, contact the specialists at Hattiesburg Clinic today to request an appointment with one of our skilled providers.