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Ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm

An ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm is a non-invasive diagnostic test that uses high-frequency sound waves to ...

Ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm

An ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm is a non-invasive diagnostic test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the arteries in your arm. This test is also known as an arm arterial ultrasound or a brachial artery ultrasound. In this blog post, we will discuss what this test is, how it is performed, and what conditions it can diagnose.

What is an Arm Ultrasound Scan?

An arm ultrasound scan is a diagnostic test that uses sound waves to create images of the arteries in your arm. The sound waves are sent through a small handheld device called a transducer, which is placed on your skin over the artery being examined. The sound waves bounce off the artery and create images that are displayed on a computer monitor. This test is painless and does not involve any radiation.

How is an Arm Ultrasound Scan Performed?

During an arm ultrasound scan, you will lie on a table with your arm extended and turned slightly outward. The technician will apply a gel to the area being examined and move the transducer over the skin. The technician may ask you to move your arm in different positions to help get better images of the arteries. The test usually takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm

What Can an Arm Ultrasound Scan Diagnose?

An arm ultrasound scan can diagnose a variety of conditions that affect the arteries in your arm. These conditions include:

Peripheral artery disease (PAD): This is a condition in which the arteries in your arms and legs become narrow or blocked, leading to decreased blood flow to the affected area.

Blood clots: An arm ultrasound can detect blood clots in the arteries, which can lead to serious complications if not treated.

Aneurysms: An aneurysm is a bulge in the wall of an artery, which can be dangerous if it ruptures. An arm ultrasound can detect aneurysms in the arteries of your arm.

Trauma: An arm ultrasound can be used to diagnose injuries to the arteries in your arm, such as tears or ruptures.

Conclusion

An arm ultrasound scan is a safe and non-invasive diagnostic test that can help diagnose a variety of conditions that affect the arteries in your arm. If you are experiencing symptoms such as pain, swelling, or numbness in your arm, your doctor may recommend an arm ultrasound scan to help diagnose the underlying cause. If you have any questions about this test, be sure to speak with your doctor.

Ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm

FAQs

Is an arm ultrasound scan painful?
No, an arm ultrasound scan is a painless test that does not involve any radiation.

How long does an arm ultrasound scan take?
An arm ultrasound scan usually takes about 30 minutes to complete.

Do I need to do anything to prepare for an arm ultrasound scan?
You may be asked to wear a gown or loose-fitting clothing, and you may need to remove any jewelry or accessories from the area being examined.

Can an arm ultrasound scan detect blocked arteries?
Yes, an arm ultrasound scan can detect blocked arteries in your arm.

Who can perform an arm ultrasound scan?
An arm ultrasound scan is usually performed by a trained ultrasound technician or a radiologist.