Why is this procedure done?
These tests check for abnormal blood flow in your arms or legs. The Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) measures the resting blood pressure at the ankle compared to the blood pressure in the arm. The Pulse-Volume Recordings look at changes in the volume of blood in the arm and leg. Your doctor might order these tests if you have signs of PAD or peripheral arterial disease. Signs of PAD include leg pain, numbness, or a sore on your leg that does not heal well. Your doctor may order these tests even if you are not having signs of PAD, but could be at high risk for getting PAD. You are at a greater risk of getting PAD if you: ‚
- Have high blood sugar
- Have high blood pressure
- Have high cholesterol
- Smoke
What will the results be?
The results will tell you if you have a problem with the blood flow to your legs. Talk to your doctor about the results of the test. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
Your doctor may ask that you: ‚
- Do not smoke for 24 hours before the test.
- Avoid heavy activities such as household tasks, yard work, lifting, or hard workouts.
- Keep taking the drugs you are now taking.
- Eat your normal meals.
- Do not bring items with you that are worth a lot.
What happens during the procedure?
- This test is done by a person with special training.
- You will wear a hospital gown, lie on a table, and be awake for the test.
- You may be asked to walk on a treadmill or do simple leg exercises during the test.
- Cuffs will be placed on your arms and legs to measure your blood pressure.
- A device that uses sound waves, called a Doppler, is placed over certain areas of your legs to record the blood flow. A small bit of gel is put on your skin where the Doppler is used.
- This test takes 30 to 90 minutes.
What happens after the procedure?
You may go home right away. ‚
What care is needed at home?
You can do your normal activities when you get home. ‚
What follow-up care is needed?
Your doctor will check the test results and explain them to you. Based on your results, a plan of care on how to improve blood flow to your legs is recommended. Sometimes more tests are ordered. Your doctor may ask you to make visits to the office to check on your progress. Be sure to keep these visits. ‚
What problems could happen?
You may feel a little pain when the cuffs are pumped up. There are often no harmful risks with this test. ‚
When do I need to call the doctor?
Health problem is not better or you are feeling worse ‚
Where can I learn more?
Heart Healthy Women.Org ‚
http://www.hearthealthywomen.org/tests-diagnosis/peripheral-vascular-disease/pulse-volume-recording.html ‚
http://www.hearthealthywomen.org/tests-diagnosis/featured/ankle-brachial-index-abi-test.html ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚