Preparation checklists, step-by-step guides, and plain-language explanations of what your results mean — for every screening we offer.
Following these guidelines ensures the clearest images and most accurate results. Reference them the morning of your appointment.
Your report is written in plain language. Here is what the clinical terms mean, and what each kind of finding actually implies for you.
Percentage of blood pumped out with each heartbeat. Normal: 55–70%. Below 40% indicates significant concern.
Narrowing of an artery, measured as a percentage. 50–69% is moderate; 70%+ is severe.
When a heart valve leaks blood backward. Graded mild, moderate, or severe.
Fatty deposits inside artery walls. Soft plaque carries higher risk than calcified plaque.
Deep vein thrombosis — a blood clot in the deep veins of the leg. Requires prompt treatment.
Backward blood flow in veins due to valve failure. A key marker of venous insufficiency.
Abnormal widening of an artery. Aortic diameter ≥3 cm meets aneurysm criteria.
No significant abnormality identified in that structure or measurement.
No significant abnormalities. Share your report with your PCP. Consider repeat in 1–3 years based on your risk profile.
Minor findings warranting monitoring. Follow-up timing and lifestyle guidance included in your report.
Clinically significant findings to review with your physician. Urgency level specified in your report.
Prompt evaluation needed. We will contact you directly in addition to delivering your report.
For most scans, no special preparation is needed beyond wearing comfortable clothing and clearing a small space in your home for the sonographer to work. For abdominal aortic (AAA) and kidney arterial scans, we ask that you fast for 4–6 hours beforehand — food and gas in the abdomen can obscure ultrasound images. Water is always fine to drink.
None at all. Ultrasound imaging is completely non-invasive. The only sensation is the transducer (probe) being moved gently across your skin with a small amount of ultrasound gel — similar to lotion. There is no radiation, no needles, and no compression.
Loose, comfortable clothing that's easy to lift or adjust. We provide everything needed for modesty and privacy — gowns for cardiac imaging and disposable draping for lower extremity scans. You will never be asked to be more exposed than is necessary for your specific scan.
Absolutely. Spouses, family members, or a support person are always welcome to stay in the room during the scan. We want you to feel completely comfortable and informed throughout the visit.
Our sonographer will not provide a diagnosis on-site — all interpretation is performed by our reviewing cardiologist. This ensures your results carry the clinical authority of a specialist's written report. You'll receive your full report by email within 24–48 hours of your appointment.
If our reviewing cardiologist identifies a finding that warrants prompt attention, we will contact you directly and can help coordinate next steps with your primary care physician or a specialist. Your report will always include clear, plain-language recommendations for follow-up care when appropriate.
Now that you know exactly what to expect — no referral, no insurance, no waiting. Results in 24–48 hours.