An ultrasound of the abdominal aorta is a non-invasive, painless test that uses high-frequency sound waves to image the “aorta,” the main blood vessel leading away from the heart.

When the walls of the abdominal aorta become weak, they may balloon outward causing an abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA). As the aneurysm gets larger, the risk of rupture increases.

Ultrasound imaging of the aorta is useful for measuring its size to screen for AAA. Screening is particularly recommended for men over the age of 60 who have ever smoked and for anyone with a family history of AAA. In addition to screening, ultrasound is also a useful tool after the diagnosis of AAA to monitor its size on a regular basis to see if it needs to be repaired.

An arterial ultrasound is a test that uses high-frequency sound waves to measure the amount of blood flow through your arteries, usually those that supply blood to your arms and legs.

Arterial flow studies can detect abnormal flow within an artery. This can help to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including blood clots and poor circulation.

An arterial ultrasound is a risk-free and pain-free procedure that requires little preparation. The test provides your doctor with important information about the flow of blood through your major arteries. It can also reveal blocked or reduced blood flow through narrowed areas in the arteries, which could eventually lead to a stroke.

An ankle-brachial index (ABI) test is a simple way for your doctor to check how well your blood is flowing.

We use this test to check for peripheral artery disease (PAD). When you have this condition, it means you have blockages of the artery of your arms and legs. This slows your blood flow, so your limbs don’t get all the oxygen they need.

If you have PAD, you’re more likely to have a stroke or heart attack.

The ABI test compares the blood pressure at your ankle with the blood pressure at your arm. If you have a low score on this test, you probably have poor blood flow in your legs.

Carotid ultrasound is a safe, painless procedure that uses sound waves to examine the blood flow through the carotid arteries.

Your two carotid arteries are located on each side of your neck. They deliver blood from your heart to your brain.

Carotid ultrasound tests for blocked or narrowed carotid arteries, which can increase the risk of stroke. The results can help your doctor determine a treatment to lower your stroke risk.

A renal artery ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of your renal arteries. These arteries supply oxygenated blood to your kidneys. This test helps to detect blockages or narrowing of the arteries.Common reasons for ordering this test are:

• high blood pressure
• abdominal bruit (abnormal sound)
• previous kidney problems.

A venous Doppler ultrasound is a diagnostic test used to check the circulation in the large veins in the legs (or sometimes the arms). This exam shows any blockage in the veins by a blood clot or “thrombus” formation.