Vascular Laboratory
Vascular ultrasound is a painless, noninvasive procedure that uses sound waves to evaluate how blood moves through your veins and arteries. The UCSF Vascular Laboratory provides the full range of vascular ultrasound exams, including the following:
- Abdominal vascular exam: Evaluates the blood vessels that bring blood to and away from the abdominal organs
- Extracranial cerebrovascular arterial duplex scan: Evaluates vessels in the head and neck, such as the carotid artery
- Transcranial doppler study: Studies the blood vessels within the skull that supply the brain
- Venous and arterial study of legs and arms: Evaluates blood flow from the legs and arms to the heart
Vascular ultrasounds may take up to an hour, depending on the study.
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We see patients with the following conditions:
- Abdominal aortic aneurysms
- Carotid artery disease
- Cerebrovascular disease and stroke
- Chronic vein disease, such as varicose veins
- Deep vein thrombosis (blood clots)
- Mesenteric artery disease (narrowing of the arteries that supply blood to the intestines)
- Peripheral artery disease in arms, hands, legs or feet
- Renal (kidney) artery disease
Doctor referral required
Our locations (4)
Support services
Plan your visit
Preparing for your appointment
What to Bring
- Photo I.D.
- Health insurance card
- Insurance authorization, if required
- Doctor's referral, if required
- Recent test results related to your condition
- List of your medications, including dosages, plus any you're allergic to
- List of questions you may have
- Device or paper for taking notes
