Vascular Imaging Specialist

What is vascular imaging?

Vascular imaging is a safe, non-invasive, and painless procedure that uses ultrasound technology to create images and videos of your arteries and veins. 

It’s a powerful diagnostic tool that allows physicians to monitor blood vessel health and function. Your doctor can use it to evaluate blood flow to and from your heart, as well as the way blood moves through your peripheral blood vessels. 

Why would I need vascular imaging?

The team at Coral Gables Cardiology Associates, recommends vascular imaging for several purposes.

The team uses the procedure to:

• Monitor blood flow throughout your body;
• Identify and locate narrowed or blocked blood vessels;
• Locate blood clots; and,
• Identify an aneurysm (enlarged artery).

A carotid artery ultrasound is a preventive tool to look for cholesterol plaque in the neck arteries which can cause strokes. Early identification can lead to a management strategy that helps reduce the likelihood of these catastrophic events.  

They also offer an abdominal aorta ultrasound evaluation as a screening tool to identify aneurysms early. These tend to occur in high-risk individuals, such as smokers and those with a family history of aneurysms. Finding these aneurysms is critical as they can dissect and rupture causing death if left without treatment.

What do I need to do to prepare for vascular imaging?

You don’t need to do anything special to prepare for vascular imaging. Wear loose, comfortable clothing to your appointment. 

What happens during vascular imaging?

Vascular imaging usually takes 30 minutes. You might need to wear a hospital gown during your test. 

While you recline on a treatment table, the ultrasound technician applies a clear gel to the skin over the area being examined. The gel helps the transducer wand move over your skin smoothly and create clear images. 

The technician moves the transducer over your skin. It sends ultrasound waves into your body and collects the echoes produced when the waves bounce off your blood vessels and tissues. 

The transducer sends the data to a computer that uses the echoes to create images and videos of your arteries and veins.

Your doctor examines the images and discusses your results with you. If the test confirms your diagnosis, they explain your treatment options and next steps. 

Speak to your physician to learn more about the vascular imaging services offered at Coral Gables Cardiology Associates

We serve the greater Miami, Florida area. Call us to book your appointment today.