Upper Extremity Venous Ultrasound

Ultrasound is the initial imaging modality of choice when evaluating the upper extremity venous system.  Ultrasound provides an accurate, rapid, safe, and painless noninvasive method for screening, mapping, and surveillance of the upper extremity venous system.  Venous ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the veins in the body. It is commonly used to search for blood clots, to diagnose a condition known as thoracic outlet syndrome or to assist in the successful placement of intravenous lines. Ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation and has no known harmful effects.

An upper extremity venous imaging study needs no special patient preparation.  Plan on 30 to 60 minutes for the exam.