Coastal Vascular Centre - Sunshine Coast Vascular Ultrasound Clinic
What is a Vascular Ultrasound?
Vascular ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time pictures of blood vessels and measure how blood flows through them. It is used to detect problems including blockages, narrowing, blood clots, varicose veins, and aneurysms, and can also be used to check blood flow after surgery. The test is very safe, painless, and does not involve radiation, making it a common choice for diagnosing and monitoring vascular conditions.
During the procedure, a small device called a transducer is passed over the skin, sending sound waves into the body. These waves bounce off blood cells and blood vessel walls, and a computer converts them into images and waveforms. A specialised technique called Doppler ultrasound may be used alongside ultrasound to show the speed and direction of blood flow, helping to assess circulation and detect abnormalities such as deep vein thrombosis, carotid artery disease, or peripheral artery disease.
How Does Vascular Ultrasound Assist With Diagnosing Vascular Conditions?
Vascular conditions affect the arteries, veins, and capillaries that carry blood throughout the body, and range in severity and implications to overall health. Vascular ultrasound assists in the diagnosis of these conditions by providing real-time images of blood vessels and measuring how blood flows through them.
Some common uses of vascular ultrasound are to assess the origin and spread of spider and varicose veins, identifying clots in veins when evaluating for DVT, assessing reduced circulation in the legs caused by Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD), and monitoring how well blood is flowing after surgical procedures.
Because vascular ultrasound is non-invasive and proven to be safe for the majority of patients, it is one of the primary tools for detecting and monitoring vascular diseases.
Common Vascular Conditions and The Benefits of Ultrasound
| Vascular Condition | How Vascular Ultrasound Helps |
| Spider Veins | Identifies origins of condition and improves accuracy during vein sclerotherapy treatment. |
| Varicose Veins | Assesses faulty vein valves and abnormal blood flow to guide treatment options. |
| Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) | Identifies blood clots in deep veins by assessing vein compression and blood flow. |
| Carotid Artery Disease | Detects narrowing or plaque in the neck arteries to assess stroke risk. |
| Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD) | Evaluates reduced circulation in the arms or legs caused by narrowed arteries. |
| Aneurysm | Measures enlarged blood vessels to monitor size and risk of rupture |
| Renal Artery Stenosis | Identifies reduced blood flow to the kidneys caused by arterial narrowing. |
| Dialysis Access Assessment | Confirms proper blood flow through dialysis fistulas or grafts. |
| Post-Procedure Follow-Up | Monitors blood flow after vascular surgery or interventional procedures. |
Access quality minimally invasive endovascular & open vascular surgical care on the Sunshine Coast.
What To Expect When Visiting Dr. Jill O’Donnell For A Vascular Ultrasound
Consultation
Visit one of our Sunshine Coast clinics to discuss your concerns and understand what your history includes. We will discuss your options with you before beginning your course of treatment.
Treatment
Typically, a session takes between 30 and 60 minutes to complete. You will need to attend our Vascular Ultrasound lab in Maroochydore.
Recovery
Vascular Ultrasound is a non-invasive procedure, and you will be able to resume normal activities immediately afterward.
How To Prepare For A Vascular Ultrasound
Here’s a simple checklist for patients on how to prepare for a vascular ultrasound:
Do wear loose, comfortable clothing or be prepared to change into a gown.
Do take your regular medications unless your doctor gives different instructions.
Do drink water if you are told to fast (hydration helps with imaging).
Do arrive on time, as preparation and positioning may take a few minutes.
Don’t eat or drink anything except water for 6–8 hours before an abdominal vascular ultrasound (for arteries like the aorta or renal arteries).
Don’t apply lotions, oils, or powders on the skin in the area being examined, as these can interfere with the ultrasound gel and image quality.
Don’t worry about recovery afterward. You can resume normal activities immediately.
Why Choose Dr Jill O’Donnell for a Vascular Ultrasound?
Dr. O'Donnell provides vascular surgical care tailored to your specific condition.
Dr. O’Donnell has over 10 years of experience specialising in minimally invasive endovascular & open vascular surgical care.
Understanding your health and treatment options is important, so we keep you informed every step of the way.
Our Vascular Ultrasound laboratory is centrally located in Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast.
Joshua Duncan, Vascular Sonographer
Joshua Duncan is Coastal Vascular Centre’s dedicated and highly skilled Vascular Sonographer. Known for his professionalism, attention to detail, and patient-focused approach, Joshua has a strong background in diagnostic vascular imaging and plays a key role in delivering accurate, reliable assessments that support effective diagnosis and treatment. His commitment to clinical excellence and compassionate care ensures every patient feels informed, comfortable, and confident throughout their examination.