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Services > Hospital Services > Vascular Laboratory
Vascular Laboratory
Licking Memorial Hospital
Temporarily located in Radiology on the First Floor
1320 West Main Street
Newark, Ohio 43055
7:15 a.m. - 5:15 p.m. (M-F)
Phone: (220) 564-4267
Physician Referral Phone: (220) 564-4722
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LMH offers the services of a well-established and nationally accredited Vascular Laboratory to assist your physician in evaluation of possible circulation disorders through painless, non-invasive procedures.  
 
The Laboratory is overseen by the Directory of Radiology and all testing is done by specially trained Registered Vascular Technologists (RVT). Results are interpreted by board-certified vascular surgeons. Preliminary results of emergency procedures are available immediately so that, if treatment is necessary, there is no delay. For routine procedures, final results will be sent within three to five days to your doctor and any specialist involved in your care.
 
There are five main types of noninvasive vascular procedures available as well as a more in-depth evaluation by special radiology testing, known as arteriography.
 
Arterial Testing
Arterial studies can be done on the legs, arms or fingers. The readings tell the doctor how well the blood is carried from your heart to your extremities and detect blockage to blood flow.
 
Venous Testing
Venous evaluations are most often ordered by your physician to check for blood clots in the leg using ultrasound technology. Certain veins are evaluated for blockage by a technician. Additional tests may be ordered to evaluate the veins for venous insufficiency, which can cause varicose veins, swelling and other chronic (ongoing) leg problems. Light clothing is recommended for these procedures. A preliminary result of your test is reported to your doctor as quickly as possible. After your test, you will be given further instructions before discharge.
 
Cerebrovascular Testing (Carotid Artery Studies)
Using an ultrasound, the carotid arteries in the neck are evaluated for early detection of disease in order to prevent strokes. This ultrasound is used to measure blood flow, to spot blockage or buildup of deposits, and to give us a sound recording of the blood. Clothing that is loose around the neck is preferred.
 
Abdominal Testing
Abdominal testing using an ultrasound evaluates normal and abnormal blood flow and/or blockages in certain arteries and veins such as renal (kidney), stomach (mesenteric), and portal (liver) circulation, and such conditions as hypertension (high blood pressure), and for evaluation of blood flow to the liver and other possible conditions. Note: This test is performed for blood flow evaluation. If your doctor requests an evaluation of the abdominal organs by ultrasound, that procedure will be done in the Radiology Department.
 
You must be fasting for this test for a minimum of six hours, because normal bowel gas can distort or obscure good images of these arteries and veins. During the test, you may be placed in various positions, such as on your side or back, to get the best pictures. Light clothing that is loose around the waist is preferred.
 
Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a "ballooning" of the wall in the abdominal aorta, which supplies blood to the abdominal organs, pelvis and legs. Most patients with AAA have no symptoms, but if the AAA ruptures, the mortality rate is very high. This screening is most important if you are a male 65 years or older, and you smoke or have ever smoked. We also need to know if you have high blood pressure or if you or a family member has a history of aneurysms.
 
You should have nothing to eat or drink for six hours before this test. You may take your medications. You should wear clothing that is loose fitting around the waist. Insurance rules for AAA screening, including Medicare, are very specific. Be sure to check with your physician or insurance provider before requesting or scheduling this test.
 
Vascular Laboratory Quality Improvement
The Vascular Laboratory at Licking Memorial Hospital earned national accreditation by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC). The purpose of the IAC is to promote and improve the quality of non-invasive vascular testing. The facility was reviewed by this independent agency that recognizes the Laboratory's commitment to quality diagnostic testing for the diagnosis of vascular diseases. The IAC is committed to the process and value of accreditation and is dedicated to patient care. This commitment to excellence and standards that reflect an organization’s quality is the driving force behind laboratories that wish to be nationally recognized and certified, and LMH is proud to be a part of this elite group of accredited laboratories.
 
Service Information
Your physician can schedule an appointment by calling (220) 564-4722.