Patient Instructions - Segmental Pressure

A segmental pressure exam evaluates the blood flow in an extremity. It can reveal possible blocked or reduced blood flow that may be the source of various symptoms.

Before your Procedure

• You may eat normally. No preparation is required.

During your Procedure

• You will be positioned on an exam table.

• This test is often performed on both arms or both legs, even if the suspected blood flow problem is only in one extremity. Both extremities are done for comparison.

• Blood pressure cuffs are placed on one or both arms and/or legs. The blood pressure cuffs are placed in several different locations, depending on which vessels are being tested.

• The blood pressure cuffs will inflate and deflate at various times during the exam.

• A registered sonographer will place a doppler probe over the blood vessels and you may hear sounds that represent blood flow through those vessels.

• The ultrasound machine then takes measurements of the blood flow.

• Blood pressure cuffs are placed on one or both arms or legs and more measurements are recorded.

• The blood pressure cuffs are placed in several different locations depending on which vessels are being tested.

• The exam length is approximately 60 minutes.

After your Procedure

• You may return to normal activity.

• A radiologist will interpret the results and send a report to your doctor.

• Your physician will contact you to discuss the results in approximately 3-4 days after the exam.

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your provider.