However, the technique is highly operator-dependent and can be time-consuming. As with other US examinations, advantages include its noninvasive nature, relatively low-costs, and generally well-tolerated. If you are having one of these tests combined with a Renal ultrasound or Renal Artery Doppler, you must follow the fasting prep outlined above.Doppler ultrasound (US) is a well-established and useful technique for evaluating the renovascular system and associated pathologic conditions. If you are having only a Vein Mapping or Bladder ultrasound, there is no preparation for these exams. Carotid - This examination evaluates the carotid arteries.Upper Extremity Vein Mapping Ultrasound - this exam evaluates the size of the veins and arteries in the arms and assesses the suitability for a fistula (dialysis access) in the event that one may be needed in the future.Diagnostic Bladder Ultrasound - this exam evaluates the bladder to detect a mass and is also used to measure the amount of urine remaining in the bladder after voiding.Do not smoke or chew gum prior to your exam as they can increase stomach gas.For noon or later appointments, do not eat food or drink liquids 6 hours prior to your exam.Take medications as usual with a small amount of water.For morning appointments, do not eat food or drink liquids after midnight the night before your exam.Preparation for the above exams is as follows: Transplant Renal Ultrasound and Renal Artery Doppler - same as above for a transplanted kidney.You will hear pulse-like sounds during this test and this is normal. Renal Artery Doppler Ultrasound - this exam evaluates blood flow to the kidneys to determine if there is a narrowing or blockage of the renal arteries (also called stenosis or renovascular disease).Diagnostic Renal Ultrasound - this exam assesses the kidneys to determine size, shape and to detect a mass, cyst, stone or other obstruction in the kidney.We perform the following types of studies: You can resume your normal activities immediately after the test and there are no side effects. For the Vein Mapping study, we will need to access the entire length of both arms, so dress accordingly. For most exams you will not need to change out of your clothes. A report will be sent to the physician who referred you for the test and he/she will notify you of the results.Īllow up to 1 hour for the exam and wear loose, comfortable clothes. The technologist will not give you the results of your test. Pictures are taken and sent to a computer where your study will be read by one of our four doctors who specialize in the interpretation of ultrasound and Doppler images. The technologist will begin by applying a water based gel to the area to be evaluated and then a small microphone-like device called a transducer is pressed firmly against the skin and swept back and forth over the area of interest. You may be asked to hold your breath occasionally, but for the most part, you should lie quietly, relax and breathe normally. Pacemakers, defibrillators and metal rods or pins are not affected by ultrasound.Īs part of the procedure, you will be asked to lie first on your back, then on your sides. No radiation or injections are used in ultrasound imaging which makes this modality an extremely safe, non-invasive diagnostic tool. ![]() Because these images can also show motion, ultrasound is used for a variety of applications, including studying blood flow through arteries and veins (this part of the exam is known as Doppler). The reflected echoes are recorded and displayed as a visual image. We have performed more than 6,000 exams.Īlso called sonography, ultrasound is a simple imaging procedure that bounces high-frequency sound waves off parts of the body. Our two technologists, Robin and Harmony, are both Registered Vascular Technologists and Registered Diagnostic Medical Sonographers. We have been a part of Mountain Kidney & Hypertension Associates since 2002 and are accredited by the Intersocietal Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL).
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