• 1: » Home
• 2: » About Us
  • 2.1: » Markets Served
  • 2.2: » Accreditations
  • 2.3: » Media
  • 2.4: » Contact
• 3: » Services
  • 3.1: » Echocardiography
  • 3.2: » Vascular Ultrasound
  • 3.3: » Screening
  • 3.4: » Hospital-Based
  • 3.5: » Office-Based
  • 3.6: » Staffing
• 4: » Ultrasound Centers
  • 4.1: » Diagnostic Tests
  • 4.2: » Cardiovascular Screening
  • 4.3: » Driving Directions
  • 4.4: » Patient Information
  • 4.5: » Physician Orders
• 5: » Careers
  • 5.1: » Why Work For Us
  • 5.2: » Benefits
  • 5.3: » Testimonials
  • 5.4: » Available Jobs
  • 5.5: » Online Application
• 6: » Login
  • 6.1: » Staff Login
  • 6.2: » Client Login

Patient Information

Learn more about the exams performed at TCH Imaging Kenwood:

1. What Is An Ultrasound

Ultrasound is the use of sound waves to produce images and/or evluate blood flow. The ultrasound machine enables a doctor to visualize the organs and analyze blood flow. This valuable information is then used in the management of your case.

2. How Does It Work?

The examination is performed by a sonographer experienced in using ultrasound equipment. Gel will be applied to the area to be tested to prevent air from getting trapped between the ultrasound source and your skin. A small probe, called a transducer, will then be moved over the gelled surface. The sonographer will record images from the machine for a physician to review later. These tests use no needles, no dye, no radiation, and are usually completely painless.

3. Is Ultrasound Safe?

Diagnostic ultrasound has been heavilly studied for many years. There are no known health risks from diagnostic medical ultrasound.

5. What Is A Carotid Artery Exam?

An ultrasound examination to evaluate thearteries in the neck, which are responsible for carrying blood flow to the brain. Thie test can determine the presence of plaque buildup in the arteries or other abnormalities that could potentially cause a stroke.

Exam Time: Approximately 60 Minutes

Patient Preparation: None

6. What Is A Lower & Upper Extremity Venous Exam?

An ultrasound examination of the veins in the legs or arms to determine whether or not a blood clot is present. The legs are scanned from the groin to the ankle, while the arms are scanned from the neck to the wrist.

Exam Time: Approximately 60 Minutes

Patient Preparation: None

7. What Is A Lower & Upper Arterial Exam?

An ultrasound examination of the arteries in the legs or arms to evaluate the presence, location and severity of peripheral vascular disease (blockages). The abdominal aorta may also be evaluated using ultrasound when the lower extremities will be tested.

A lower arterial is when the legs are scanned with an ultrasound probe from the level of the groin to the ankles. Blood pressures will be taken in both arms and both ankles.

For an upper arterial exam, the arms are scanned with an ultrasound probe from the shoulder to the wrist. Blood pressures are taken of the upper arms and of the forearms.

Exam Time: Aprroximately 60 Minutes.

Patient Preparation: Lower Arterial Only- Because this exam may include scanning portions of the abdominal and pelvic areas, the patient should not eat or drink anything for 6 hours prior to the test. Patients may take medicines with small sips of water.

8. What Is A Renal Artery Exam?

An ultrasound examination of the kidneys and the arteries that supply them with blood. The arteries are evaluated for peripheral vascular disease (blockages).

Exam Time: Approximately 60 Minutes

Patient Preparation: Because this exam involves scanning of the abdomen, the patient should not eat or drink anything for 6 hours prior to the test. Patients may take medicines with small sips of water.

9. What Is An Echocardiogram Exam?

An ultrasound examination of the heart valves, all four chambers and the great blood vessels entering and leaving the heart.

Exam Time: Approximately 45 Minutes

Patient Preparation: None