Iliac Artery Endofibrosis Assessment

Vascular ultrasounds use high frequency sound waves to assess the blood flow of blood vessels in the body, including those in the neck, arms, and legs, from the groin to the ankle.

Iliac artery endofibrosis assessment involves assessing the blood vessels in the lower abdomen and the groin, which supply blood to the legs. These include the iliac arteries, and common, profunda, and proximal superficial femoral arteries. Based on your symptoms, these vessels are assessed at rest and following exercise. We ask that you bring in your own bicycle for the exercise portion of the exam. We provide a stationary bicycle trainer which allows you to perform high intensity exercise to bring on symptoms.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• Take all prescribed medications as directed.
• Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time to check in with reception.
• Bring photo identification and your provincial health card.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Please do not bring children who require supervision.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

• If needed, we will provide you with a gown or shorts to wear during the exam.
• You will be asked to lie down on the bed, and blood pressure cuffs may be placed on both arms and both ankles.
• The blood pressure cuffs will inflate so the sonographer can take blood pressure readings. The cuffs may become tight, but only for a few seconds.
• During the exam, your sonographer will listen to your blood flow, so you will hear what sounds like your heartbeat. This is the blood moving through the artery and each artery checked has a slightly different sound.
• A warm, non-scented, hypo-allergenic, water-based ultrasound gel will then be applied to the area being scanned for the ultrasound.
• A series of images is acquired to show the structure and flow of blood through the arteries.
• After blood vessels have been assessed at rest, you will be asked to exercise either on a stationary bicycle or by running on the spot.
• The sonographer will scan the blood vessels and measure your blood pressure again immediately following this exercise.
• You may experience mild to moderate pressure while the sonographer takes the images.
• The radiologist reviews the images and measurements, and your doctor will receive a comprehensive report on the status of your arteries.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor by the next business day. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This exam is covered under your Alberta Health Care Plan. It is not currently offered at our Saskatchewan clinics.