Vascular Ultrasound Screening
CAROTID ARTERY / STROKE SCREENING
80-85% of strokes (“brain attack”) result from clots that break off, traveling to smaller arteries in the brain. Color Doppler Ultrasound is used to identify plaque build-up, blood clots, and other obstructions that increase the risk of a stroke. The amount and type of plaque is a good prognostic indicator of stroke risk. Studies have shown that those with atherosclerosis (plaque build-up) in the carotid arteries are not only at a higher risk for stroke, but also a higher risk of coronary heart disease.
ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM (AAA) SCREENING
The aorta is our body’s largest blood vessel and its purpose is to carry oxygen-rich blood from our heart to the rest of our body. A healthy aorta is about the diameter of a garden hose, with walls that are strong and flexible allowing it to maintain its shape when under the pressures of the blood flow. An aneurysm occurs when the aortic wall weakens causing it to balloon, much like a weak spot in an old worn out tire. Large aneurysms become dangerous due to the risk of rupture.
PERIPHERAL ARTERY DISEASE (P.A.D) SCREENING
Peripheral Artery Disease occurs when atherosclerosis (plaque build-up) occurs in the legs. This is an indication of the presence of plaque throughout the cardiovascular system and increases the risk of heart attack by 200-400%. The difference in blood pressures in your arms and legs is used to create a ratio (Ankle-Brachial Index) and will identify most cases of Peripheral Artery Disease.
ARTERIAL STIFFNESS INDEX (ASI) SCREENING
The Arterial Stiffness Index measures the flexibility of the brachial artery. Hardening of the arteries or arterial stiffness occurs when fat, cholesterol, calcium, and other substances build up in the walls of the arteries and form a substance called plaque. Eventually plaque deposits can make the artery less flexible causing the heart to work harder to push blood throughout the cardiovascular system. The ASI correlates with the extent of atherosclerotic lesions.
Cardiac Ultrasound Screening
ECHOCARDIOGRAM (HEART SCREENING)
The echocardiogram is an ultrasound scan that evaluates the structure and function of the heart. This test evaluates heart chamber size as well as wall motion, assesses the heart valves and surrounding structures, and can detect fluid build up around the heart.
ATRIAL FIBRILLATION SCREENING (EKG)
Atrial Fibrillation (also called AFib or AF) is the most common form of irregular heartbeat and can lead to blood clots, stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications. Atrial Fibrillation can double the risk of heart related deaths and increase the risk of stroke up to 5 times. This condition can occur without any symptoms.
GENERAL ULTRASOUND SCREENING
General Ultrasound Screening
ABDOMINAL ULTRASOUND SCREENING
The abdominal ultrasound screening evaluates several abdominal structures including the liver, kidneys, pancreas, aorta, spleen, and gallbladder.
RENAL ULTRASOUND SCREENING
The renal screening evaluates the kidneys and bladder for cysts, masses, and obstructions
THYROID ULTRASOUND SCREENING
The thyroid is an endocrine gland located in the neck which controls your body's metabolism. The thyroid ultrasound screening evaluates the lobes of the gland as well as the isthmus.