Non-Invasive Vascular Studies
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Non-Invasive Vascular Studies utilize ultrasound to examine arteries and veins without the use of needles or imaging contrast dye. Below you'll find information on different types of NIVs we do at The Radiology Clinic. Our staff is always available to answer any questions you have about an examination. You can reach Scheduling at (205) 345-2000 or our Ultrasound Department at (205) 345-5586. Our Ultrasound Department hours are 7am to 6pm Monday through Friday and 8am to noon on Saturday. Types:NIV LEA - Non-Invasive Vascular Lower Extremity Arterial: Evaluates circulation in the arteries in the legs. It identifies plaque in the arteries that could affect blood flow, thus causing pain or discoloration in the legs and/or feet. NIV UEA - Non-Invasive Vascular Upper Extremity Arterial: Evaluates circulation in the arteries in the arms. It identifies plaque that could affect blood flow, causing pain or discoloration in the arms and or hands. NIV LEV - Non-Invasive Vascular Lower Extremity Venous: Examines the veins in the legs to identify blood clots. Symptoms associated with this procedure consist of leg swelling, leg pain or feeling of warmth in the leg. NIV UEV - Non-Invasive Vascular Upper Extremity Venous: Examines the veins in the arm for blood clots. Symptoms associated with this procedure could include arm pain, swelling, feeling of warmth in the arm or having had a recent Intravenous Injection in the arm. NIV CAROTID - Non-Invasive Carotid Artery Examination: Examines the carotid artery, internal carotid artery and vertebral artery in the neck for plaque. Symptoms associated with this procedure could include headaches, dizziness, fainting or Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA). Pictures of individual arteries are taken showing evidence of any plaque formation.
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Is There Any Preparation Required?
There is no special preparation required for Non-Invasive Vascular Studies. The studies take approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour not including check-in and interview with our technologists.
Meet Dr. Louis W. Lucas - One of Our Radiologists
Dr. Lucas, a native of West Blocton, Alabama, joined The Radiology Clinic in July of 2014. He received his undergraduate degree from Troy State University and his medical degree from University of Alabama School of Medicine in Birmingham, Alabama. He completed his internship at Baptist Medical Center in Birmingham, Alabama. Dr. Lucas completed his residency in Diagnostic Radiology at University of Alabama at Birmingham and a fellowship in Interventional Radiology at University of Colorado in Aurora, Colorado. He maintains board certification through the American College of Radiology.
“Non-Invasive Vascular studies are a critical tool for evaluating the body’s circulatory system. These non-invasive examinations use ultrasound equipment to evaluate blood flow to the brain, the abdominal organs, as well as, the arms and legs. As a result, we are able to locate and identify blockages and flow abnormalities, detect blood clots, and assess anatomy for procedures. All of our sonographers at The Radiology Clinic are Registered Vascular Technologists, and they work closely with our doctors, who are all Board Certified Radiologists, to ensure quality examinations that address the unique needs for each patient.”
Why Should You Ask Your Doctor to Always Schedule Your Medical Imaging at The Radiology Clinic?
Compassionate Staff
The Radiology Clinic's caring staff recognizes that diagnostic testing can cause apprehension and uneasiness. Our technologists will take the time to explain exactly what you can expect, and someone is always available to assist you with questions or concerns.
Convenience
We are open from 7am to 7pm Monday through Friday and 8am to noon on Saturdays. Easily accessible from McFarland Boulevard, we are located just north of the Black Warrior River and ample free parking provides easy access to the clinic.
Depth of Experience
Our board-certified radiologists work with trained technologists to provide a compassionate, expert imaging experience. Radiologists are physicians who have received 4 to 6 years of advanced training after completing their medical degrees. Radiology technologists, who work closely with radiologists, receive 2 to 4 years of training in radiologic technology.