Vascular Ultrasound, also known as vascular sonography, involves the use of high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the vascular system. Ultrasound images are captured in real-time and are able to visualize internal structures, movement, and blood flow.

During an ultrasound examination, a transducer is pressed against the skin and directs a stream of inaudible, high frequency sound waves into the body. As the sound waves bounce off of internal organs, fluids and tissues, images are produced through tiny changes in the sound's pitch and direction.

Vascular Ultrasound is a useful tool for evaluating the body's circulatory system, identifying blockages (stenosis), blood clots, plaque or emboli. The test can also help determine whether a patient is a good candidate for angioplasty.

Doppler ultrasound, a special application of ultrasound, measures the direction and speed of blood cells as they move through vessels. Computer technology collects and processes the sounds, creating graphs or pictures that represent the blood flow. It is good test to evaluate blood flow through a blood vessel, including the body's major arteries and veins in the abdomen, arms, legs and neck.