ICAVL-Accredited Vascular Lab
State-of-the-art noninvasive vascular laboratory providing comprehensive diagnostic imaging for all vascular conditions. Our ICAVL accreditation ensures the highest standards of quality, accuracy, and patient safety in every study we perform.
Precision Diagnostics From an Accredited Vascular Laboratory
The vascular laboratory at Vascular Surgical Associates is accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) in Vascular Testing, commonly known as ICAVL accreditation. This voluntary designation is awarded only to facilities that meet rigorous standards for equipment, personnel qualifications, testing protocols, and quality assurance.
Our registered vascular technologists (RVTs) use advanced duplex ultrasound and Doppler technology to evaluate blood flow in arteries and veins throughout the body. These noninvasive studies produce real-time images and hemodynamic data that our board-certified vascular surgeons rely on to make accurate diagnoses and develop individualized treatment plans.
All seven of our metro Atlanta locations are equipped with the same high-resolution imaging systems, ensuring consistent quality regardless of which office you visit. Results are interpreted by our vascular surgeons and typically communicated to your referring physician the same day.
Your Vascular Lab Experience
From referral to results, our streamlined process ensures accurate diagnostics and a comfortable patient experience at every step.
Referral
Your physician sends a referral order for the appropriate vascular study. Self-referral is also available for certain screening studies.
Appointment
Schedule at any of our 7 metro Atlanta locations at a time that works for you. Most appointments are available within days of the referral.
Testing
A credentialed registered vascular technologist performs the ultrasound study in a comfortable, private exam room. Most tests take 30 to 60 minutes.
Results Review
A board-certified vascular surgeon interprets your study, and results are sent to your referring physician, typically the same day.
Vascular Testing We Provide
Our accredited lab offers a complete range of noninvasive vascular diagnostic studies to evaluate every part of the circulatory system.
Arterial Duplex Ultrasound
Evaluates blood flow in the arteries of the legs and arms to detect peripheral artery disease (PAD), stenosis, or occlusions. Combines B-mode imaging with Doppler waveform analysis for a complete assessment of arterial health.
Venous Duplex Ultrasound
Maps the deep and superficial venous systems to identify deep vein thrombosis (DVT), chronic venous insufficiency, and venous reflux. Essential for planning vein treatments and monitoring post-thrombotic conditions.
Carotid Duplex Ultrasound
Visualizes the carotid arteries in the neck to detect atherosclerotic plaque and measure the degree of stenosis. This study is a critical screening tool for stroke prevention in at-risk patients.
Aortic / Aneurysm Screening
Ultrasound measurement of the abdominal aorta to detect aneurysms before they reach a dangerous size. Recommended for men over 65, smokers, and individuals with a family history of aortic aneurysm.
Renal Artery Doppler
Assesses blood flow to the kidneys by evaluating the renal arteries for stenosis or other abnormalities. Often ordered for patients with difficult-to-control hypertension or declining kidney function.
Mesenteric Duplex Studies
Evaluates blood flow in the mesenteric arteries supplying the intestines. Used to diagnose mesenteric artery stenosis in patients experiencing postprandial abdominal pain, unintended weight loss, or food avoidance.
ICAVL Accredited
Meets the highest national standards for vascular testing quality, accuracy, and patient safety.
Same-Day Results
Studies are interpreted by a board-certified vascular surgeon and results are sent to your physician the same day.
All 7 Locations
Every VSA office is equipped with the same advanced imaging technology for convenient, consistent testing.
No Radiation
All studies use ultrasound technology with no radiation exposure, making them safe for repeat testing and all patients.
Vascular Lab Locations
Our ICAVL-accredited vascular lab services are available at all seven of our metro Atlanta offices, ensuring convenient access to high-quality diagnostic imaging wherever you are.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about our ICAVL-accredited vascular laboratory.
ICAVL stands for the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission in Vascular Testing. It is a voluntary accreditation program that evaluates vascular testing facilities against rigorous national standards for equipment quality, technologist credentials, physician interpretation, and quality assurance. A lab that holds ICAVL accreditation has demonstrated that its testing meets the highest benchmarks for diagnostic accuracy and patient safety. Many insurance companies recognize ICAVL accreditation as a mark of quality and may require it for reimbursement of certain studies.
Preparation depends on the type of study. For abdominal studies such as aortic, renal artery, or mesenteric duplex exams, you will typically be asked to fast for eight to twelve hours before your appointment to reduce bowel gas that can obstruct imaging. For carotid, arterial, and venous duplex exams of the arms or legs, no special preparation is usually needed. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to the area being examined. Our scheduling team will provide specific preparation instructions when you book your appointment.
Most vascular ultrasound studies take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the type of exam and the complexity of the anatomy being evaluated. A carotid duplex is typically completed in about 30 minutes, while a comprehensive venous reflux mapping may take closer to 45 to 60 minutes. We recommend arriving 10 to 15 minutes early to complete any necessary paperwork. The study itself is painless, and you can return to all normal activities immediately afterward.
Most vascular lab studies do require a physician referral or order. Your primary care physician, cardiologist, or other specialist can send a referral directly to our office, and we will contact you to schedule. For certain screening studies, such as abdominal aortic aneurysm screening, self-referral may be available. If you are unsure whether you need a referral, please call our office at (770) 423-0595 and our team will help guide you through the process.
Schedule Your Vascular Study Today
With ICAVL-accredited labs at all 7 locations, Vascular Surgical Associates makes expert diagnostic imaging convenient and accessible across metro Atlanta.