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Available at these locations in Alberta:

Grande Prairie

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Lower Extremity Arterial (ABI)

The lower extremity arterial Doppler ultrasound is provided to assess the vascular integrity of the major vessels supplying the legs in patients with hypertension, vasculopathy, diabetes, foot ulcers, smoking history, prior or family history of cardiovascular diseases, previous vascular surgery including grafting, history of heart attack or stroke.

PATIENT INFORMATION AND PREPARATION

Special Instructions

  • Please refrain from smoking prior to your exam
  • There is no need to fast prior to your study
  • Take all prescription medications as instructed
  • Your skin should be kept clean and free of body oils, moisturizers and powders
  • Your clothing should be lightweight, comfortable and easy to change into, you will be asked to wear a gown for this procedure.
  • Please arrive at least 15 minutes in advance

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR EXAM

  • You will be lying down on a stretcher for your study, the technologist may raise the bed slightly. Your blood pressure will be recorded by the technologist.
  • A fragrance-free, hypoallergenic ultrasound gel will be applied to the skin of your shoulder
  • A wand-like transducer or probe will be moved over the lubricated surface of your legs to assess the underlying arteries
  • You may be asked to shift position during the course of this exam, so that the practitioner can obtain imagery of the vessels from different angles
  • The practitioner may apply a slight pressure with the transducer, in an effort to obtain clearer imagery
  • When the practitioner is satisfied with his/her captures and observations, he/she will help you to alight from the examination table before directing you to the change room.
  • Once you are changed, the radiologist may sit with you in the scan room, to explain your results
  • You will now be free to leave

WHEN TO EXPECT THE RESULTS OF YOUR EXAM

Our radiologists will interpret your information and aim to forward the results to your doctor by the end of the next working day.

WHAT YOU’LL PAY FOR THIS PROCEDURE

This exam is covered under the Alberta Health Care Plan.