Vascular and Vein Institute of the South
Vascular Diagnostic Testing Q & A
What are the standard vascular diagnostic tests?
Vascular diagnostic tests assess the health of your blood vessels and monitor your circulation. These tests help us diagnose and locate issues like peripheral artery disease (PAD), atherosclerosis, and blood clots.
We use a variety of tests depending on your symptoms and your suspected condition. Some of the common vascular diagnostic tests include:
- Angiogram
An angiogram uses X-rays to show your doctor your blood vessels. The team often uses angiograms to check for restriction in the blood vessels that feed your heart. Your doctor injects a special dye into your bloodstream that shows up clearly on X-rays. It helps your doctor find clogged arteries or signs of a heart attack. - Doppler Ultrasound
A Doppler ultrasound uses soundwaves to create images of your blood as it moves through your arteries. The test can reveal and locate blockages. The test is noninvasive and doesn’t require any needles or radiation. - Computer Tomography Angiography (CTA)
CTA uses advanced computer technology to create 3D images of your blood vessels and their anatomic relationships to your other organs and muscles. The images are detailed and allow your doctor to assess your condition. - Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
MRA provides similar imaging to a CTA but without the need for radiation. MRA also takes longer than a CTA.
What are the signs I should have vascular diagnostic testing?
You should schedule an appointment if you have symptoms, such as:
- Leg pain
- Swelling in your legs
- Numbness or tingling in your legs
- Foot pain
- Skin looks blue or grey
- Chest pain
- Shortness of breath
Vascular health issues like heart disease, atherosclerosis, blood clots, venous insufficiency, and other conditions that cause inflammation in your blood vessels often cause these symptoms.
What happens if vascular diagnostic testing reveals a problem?
If you have a vascular health issue, the earlier you get an accurate diagnosis, the better. Our board-certifed vascular surgeons offer customized, comprehensive treatment plans for a wide range of health issues. Your treatment depends on your condition and symptoms.
Call or make an appointment online today for expert vascular diagnostic testing.