Saphenous Vein Mapping Ultrasound

This procedure is performed to create a "map" of your leg veins for the surgeon in preparation for various procedures that will include bypass graft surgery (replacing diseased vessels in your body with the healthy vein from your leg).

At the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center, we have a specialized team of physicians, nurses, and technologists who are experts in ultrasound radiology.

• Why choose the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center for a vascular ultrasound?
• Find directions and parking information for our Imaging locations.

• There is no preparation for this procedure.
• If your doctor gave you an order, please bring it with you.
• We want to make your waiting time as pleasant as possible. Please consider bringing your favorite magazine, book or music player to help you pass the time.
• Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home.

• The vascular technologist will explain your exam and answer any questions you may have.
• Your procedure will be performed with you lying on the examination table on your back with your hands at your sides or on your stomach.
• The technologist will apply warm gel to your legs.
• A transducer, a small device similar to a microphone, will be placed over various locations on your legs.
• You will not feel any pain; however you will feel mild pressure from the transducer.
• Sound waves will bounce off the muscle and tissue in your body. This creates "echoes." The echoes are reflected back to the transducer. A television monitor shows images as the transducer converts the echoes to electronic signals. These images may be viewed immediately and/or photographed for further study.
• You may hear unusual sounds as the technologist views and records the blood flowing through the veins and arteries in your legs.
• The technologist will measure your leg vein and mark your skin to show your surgeon the exact location of your vein. You should not remove these marks; they are needed by the surgeon.
• Your exam will take approximately 30 minutes.

• There are no post-exam instructions.
• Your study will be reviewed by a vascular surgeon and the results sent to your physician. Your physician will discuss these results with you and explain what they mean in relation to your health.
• If you have any problems related to your procedure, please call 310-423-8000.