About this Test
This test examines the veins in one or both of your legs or arms. Pictures of these veins are taken with sound waves, not x-rays.
Why this Test is Done
You may have had a recent injury or surgery that is causing pain, swelling, or redness in your legs or arms, or the pain, swelling, or redness may have appeared suddenly. These symptoms could be caused by a blood clot forming in the veins. The sonogram will identify blood clots in the veins that may decrease the blood flow.
Before the Test
You may eat, drink, and take medication as you usually do.
During the Test
You will be asked to remove pants or hosiery so that direct contact with the skin can be made. You will be asked to lie on an exam table. Warm gel will be applied to your leg (or arm). This helps to optimize the images. Pictures will be seen on a computer screen during the exam. Noises will be heard throughout portion of the test. The technologist will warn you of these before they happen.
After the Test
You may be asked to wait while the images are reviewed.
Test Results
The pictures are reviewed by the radiologist and the results are sent to your doctor. The results cannot be given to you by the sonographer administering the test.
If you have any questions, call your physician or call the UPMC Hamot Ultrasound Department at 814-877-2258.
If you cannot keep your appointment, please call our scheduling department at 814-877-6123 to reschedule.