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QVI is a full service Noninvasive Vascular Laboratory providing a complete array of diagnostic techniques. Ultrasound is the primary modality utilized to evaluate arteries and veins throughout the body. There are also other technologies, such as Plethysmography, Pulse Volume Recordings (PVR), Doppler pressure and waveform analysis, Photoplethysmography, and Venous Recovery times. There are two unique features of the Vascular Laboratory. First, all our examinations are noninvasive - that is no needles, injections, no radiation, no pain or discomfort. Second, these exams are the only testing modality that provides physiologic or functional information about the vascular system. For example, some tests such as angiography or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can provide accurate pictures of blood vessels but does not yield any information on what any disease present does to the blood flow - arguably the most critical information in determining the risk the disease actually poses to the patient. You can click on any of the brown titles for detailed information! Carotid artery disease is the most common cause of stroke in the USA and early detection with accurate assessment is the key to prevention. At QVI, we have the most sophisticated equipment available for detecting this common condition. Our ultrasound instrument uses a super computer to compound multiple images that provides a unique view of plaque characteristics and surface irregularities. This allows an assessment of the risk a specific plaque presents to the patient. We are also able to evaluate the intracranial vessels for stenosis, arteriovenous malformation or vasospasm of the vessels within the skull. Traditionally, this information has only been obtainable by contrast angiography. Symptomatic patients without other explanation may benefit from this noninvasive test.
Lower Extremity Arterial Evaluation Peripheral vascular disease in the legs presents as exertional leg pain known as claudication. This common condition can be suspected with a careful history and physical examination, but noninvasive testing can unequivocally establish its presence and quantitate the severity. In order to minimize costs, at QVI we start with the most inexpensive test that measures pressure and volume in various segments of the leg. Many times exercise is performed to elicit symptoms. If this is normal, often no further testing is needed. If abnormal, this can establish arterial insufficiency as the cause of the patients symptoms. If disease is present, all major arteries can be visualized using the color duplex scanner. The result is a detailed overview of the lower extremity arterial circulation.
Lower Extremity Venous Evaluation Venous duplex scanning is commonly performed on patients who present with a swollen leg to rule out the presence of deep vein thrombosis ("DVT"). Duplex scanning is the accepted “gold standard” for diagnosis of DVT. However, it is extremely operator dependent and the accuracy is primarily dependent upon the skill of the technologist performing the exam. There are a multitude of causes for leg swelling, for example venous insufficiency or synovial cysts. We are nationally recognized experts in venous testing with students coming from around the country for training at our facility. It is our philosophy that we provide an explanation for the patient’s symptoms, not just rule out a blood clot. You can be assured our patients will be fully evaluated, not just quickly scanned to “rule out DVT.” For additional information of veins, blood clots, and varicose veins. please visit the section on Venous evaluation.
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