heart health screenings

Heart-health screenings are important for lowering the risk of cardiovascular disease. They are instrumental in managing health behaviors and risk factors, such as diet quality, physical activity, smoking, body mass index (BMI), blood pressure, total cholesterol, and blood glucose.

Did you know?

• 80% of stroke victims have no apparent warning signs or symptoms.

• When detected early, 4 out of 5 strokes can be prevented.

• Using advanced ultrasound technology, we can actually see inside your arteries to help determine your risk of stroke.

Screenings

Using advanced ultrasound technology, we examine the inside of the arteries to help determine the risk of stroke and heart disease by performing the following:

• PVI: Stroke/Carotid Artery Screening Ultrasound
  Carotid Ultrasound allows for early detection and prevention of heart disease and stroke. Plaque (P) – we ultrasound the Carotid Arteries in the neck and identify any plaque buildup. Specifically, soft plaque can rupture or cause blockages, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke. Velocity (V) – with Doppler, we look for elevated or dampened velocities in the Common Carotid, which can indicate disease and/or blockage. Intima-Media Thickness (I) – in B mode ultrasound, we scan the Common Carotid Artery and measure the thickness of the Intima and Media layers, giving us a vascular age of the arteries compared to the patient’s actual age.

• ABI: Peripheral Arterial Disease Screening
  Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD) test allows for early detection of atherosclerosis, which can clog arteries and restrict blood flow. PAD screening is a quick, easy, and non-invasive procedure using the ankle-brachial index (ABI). A small ultrasound device measures the systolic pressures in both arms and legs. A ratio less than 0.90 indicates plaque buildup and possible peripheral arterial disease. A ratio of 0.90 to 1.3 is considered normal.

• AAA: Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
  Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Ultrasound checks for aneurysms in the abdomen that may be at risk of rupturing. An abdominal aorta ultrasound is performed, and measurements are taken throughout—the examination screens for the presence of an aneurysm that is 3cm or greater in size.

What happens if a concern is identified?

Our licensed sonographer will perform the ultrasound scan(s) and note any findings outside normal limits. Sonographers do not have the authority to diagnose. At the end of each screening, individuals are given reports with all findings, normal or abnormal, and they are encouraged to follow up with their PCP. If consent is given, a report with findings will be sent to their PCP.