Vascular Lab & Blood Flow Screening
The vascular laboratory at Wooster Community Hospital provides blood flow evaluations of the veins and arteries of the legs, arms, and neck. Testing is performed using ultrasound and Doppler equipment that produces images of blood vessels as well as blood flow information.
All examinations are performed by registered and experienced vascular technologists who work with highly trained vascular surgeons to provide accurate and diagnostic information that assists the doctor in treating patients with disorders of the circulatory system.
Types of Vascular Testing
The test is performed to detect blockages within the carotid arteries, which carry blood from the heart to the brain. Blocked carotid arteries can cause a stroke. An ultrasound probe is placed on either side of the neck to record pictures and evaluate blood flow within the carotid arteries.
This test is performed to search for blood clots in the deep veins of the extremities, a condition known as deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Veins of the arms and legs are scanned by placing an ultrasound probe on the surface of the skin directly over the vein to record pictures and determine blood flow.
This test is performed to check circulation and detect any blocked or narrowed arteries in the extremities, which can cause peripheral artery disease (PAD). Blood pressures are taken at four different places and compared with Doppler tracings of blood flow. This study can be done both at rest and also after exercise if ordered by the doctor.
The test is performed to detect narrowing within the renal arteries, which carry blood from the heart to the kidneys. A buildup of plaque within the renal arteries can cause high blood pressure and kidney failure. A Doppler ultrasound enables the doctor to view the renal arteries and kidneys to check for reduced blood flow.
Vascular lab services are available Monday - Friday, 7 am - 5 pm with on-call services available after regular hours. The vascular lab is located on the first floor of the hospital. For more information, call (330) 263-8282.
Blood Flow Screening
Through Wooster Community Hospital’s low-cost blood flow screening, you can identify potential risk factors associated with the onset of a stroke, peripheral arterial disease, and abdominal aortic aneurysm before your health is jeopardized. Our screenings are simple, painless, and brief. The results of your screening will be mailed to you within one week.
What is Included in a Blood Flow Screening?
- Stroke screening: Ultrasound scan of the carotid arteries in the neck to identify blockage or narrowing.
- Aortic aneurysm screening: Ultrasound scan of the abdomen to identify enlargement or blockage of the aorta (the main artery in your body that extends from your heart down to your abdomen).
- Leg circulation screening: Evaluation of blood flow in the legs and feet to identify any areas of reduced circulation.
To schedule your blood flow screening, call (330) 263-8282 Monday through Friday between 8 am and 5 pm; you do not need a doctor’s order for this test. The cost is $99/person. We offer a 50 percent discount to those who are enrolled in our WCH Friends Program.