Vascular Testing

What is vascular testing?

Vascular testing refers to diagnostic screening procedures that monitor the circulation through your arteries and veins. There are many types of vascular testing, some invasive, and others noninvasive. 

What are the types of vascular testing?

Diabetic Foot and Wound Center offers several types of vascular testing:

Angiography

Angiography is incredibly effective at diagnosing blockages within the arterial system. Under general anesthesia, your provider inserts a catheter into your upper thigh and guides it through a vessel to your heart. Once the catheter is in position, your provider injects a contrast dye. 

The dye flows through your arteries while your provider takes a series of X-rays. The X-rays reveal the path of the dye, highlighting any obstructions.

CO2 Angiography

CO2 angiography is very similar to traditional angiography. The only difference is that your provider injects carbon dioxide gas into the catheter instead of a contrast dye. This type of vascular testing is ideal for people with poor kidney function or sensitivity to the dye.

As the gas makes its way through your arteries, the X-ray images reveal its path and highlight any blockages.

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA)

CTAs and MRAs are noninvasive vascular tests that take 20-30 minutes. You lie down on a motorized bed, and your provider administers a contract agent intravenously to better visualize your blood vessels. 

After injecting the contrast agent, you undergo a CT scan or MRI. These diagnostic imaging techniques take pictures of your veins and arteries, highlighting any potential areas of concern.

Intravascular ultrasound

An intravascular ultrasound maps the inside of your arteries. This procedure takes place under general anesthesia. Your provider attaches a small ultrasound device to a catheter and runs the catheter through your femoral artery to a specific area of your body. 

The ultrasound device emits high-frequency sound waves that bounce off your veins and arteries. This provides real-time images of blockages or areas of concern.

Ankle-brachial index (ABI) test

An ABI test is a quick procedure that occurs while you’re awake. Your provider places an inflatable cuff around both ankles; these cuffs measure your circulation and blood pressure in the arteries in your thighs, calves, feet, and toes.

Duplex ultrasound

Duplex ultrasound is a noninvasive test that evaluates blood flow through your arteries and veins. During treatment, you lie down on your back. Your provider carefully runs a transducer that emits high-frequency soundwaves over specific parts of your body, like your calves or legs. The sound waves produce detailed images of your veins and arteries.

What type of vascular testing is right for me?

The type of vascular testing that’s right for you depends on your age, symptoms, and health history. Following a physical exam, the team at Diabetic Foot and Wound Center can recommend a test that aligns with your individual needs.

Schedule a vascular testing appointment at Diabetic Foot and Wound Center today. Call the office or book a consultation online.