Steal: Dialysis Access Arm and Hand Circulation
Your doctor has requested an ultrasound of your dialysis access and the circulation to your arm and hand. Ultrasound technology is safe and images arteries and veins. There is no radiation or injection of chemicals. This procedure is performed to determine whether your dialysis access is "stealing" blood from your hand.
At the Cedars-Sinai S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center, we have a specialized team of physicians and technologists who are experts in ultrasound technology.
Before Your Exam
An ultrasound reading of the blood flow in the left arm and hand. Each graph on the right corresponds to one finger on the hand, from the thumb at the top to the little finger at the bottom.
- There is no preparation for this exam and you may eat and drink. You may take your scheduled medications.
- If your doctor gave you an order, please bring it with you.
- Bring a magazine, book or music player to help you pass the time in case you have to wait.
- Leave valuables and jewelry at home.
During Your Exam
- You will be lying on the exam table on your back with your hands at your sides. The technologist will apply a warm gel on your arm and a transducer or a small microphone will be used to examine your arteries.
- You will hear the sound of moving blood during the exam. Do not be alarmed; it is harmless. The exam will take approximately 60 minutes.
After Your Exam
- Your study will be read by a physician who will send the results to your doctor. Your doctor, who ordered the study, will explain the findings to you.
- If you have problems related to your procedure, please call 310-423-8000. If you would like to request a copy of your report, please call 310-423-8000, option 2 or submit an online request.
For more information or to schedule an appointment