If you are over 60 years of age, have a history of vascular disease in your family, or have smoked for many years, a vascular screening may help determine your risk for life-threatening conditions like a stroke, artery disease, or an aneurysm. Ozark Surgical Group in Mountain Home, AR, offers this exam performed by a licensed vascular technologist.  

A Surgeon’s Advice: When to Get a Vascular Screening 

Some patients are more likely to get vascular disease than others and could benefit from a formal screening. If you are a male over 60 or a female over age 60 with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or heart disease, a vascular screening is recommended. 

This simple screening is also recommended for patients with a family history of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm, stroke, or Peripheral Arterial Disease. Patients who have had an angioplasty, stent, or bypass surgery are also candidates for screening. Diabetes, a history of smoking, or a previous heart attack are all risk factors for vascular disease.  

This vascular screening is comprised of three studies, an ultrasound of the neck to check blood flow in the carotid arteries, and an ultrasound of the abdomen to evaluate for a possible abdominal aortic aneurysm. The final exam is a blood pressure analysis of the arteries of the legs. In approximately 30 minutes, you can determine your risk for vascular disease. Once you receive your results, you can work with your surgeon to create an action plan to prevent further damage and the need for vascular surgery. 

These screening studies are not covered by health insurance. Ozark Surgical Group offers them for the low cost of $99 payable at the time of the exam. 

To make a vascular screening appointment, call Ozark Surgical Group in Mountain Home, AR, at (870) 425-9120. For more information about the practice’s expertise, visit their website.