RUSSELL — Bon Secours Kentucky Health System is offering valuable screenings at Our Lady of Bellefonte Hospital (OLBH) for the evaluation of arterial blood flow, specific to the carotid arteries, abdominal aorta and peripheral arteries of the lower leg.
The three tests, available separately or combined, are beneficial in the detection of aneurysms and to predict the severity of peripheral arterial disease (PAD).
An aneurysm can occur when an artery wall weakens, allowing it to widen. Though the cause of an aneurysm is sometimes unknown, in many cases aneurysms are a result of the type of aortic disease or injury that can be detected by OLBH’s ultrasound screenings.
Ankle-brachial index (ABI) testing is done by measuring blood pressure at the ankle and in the arm while a person is at rest.
PAD is a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries of the legs causing the arteries to narrow PAD can lead to a heart attack or stroke.
Screenings are available at OLBH’s Radiology Department weekdays from 8 a.m. until 8 p.m. Appointments can be made by calling 606-833-EXAM (3926).
Anyone with risk factors should consider a screening. Those considered at high risk include individuals with atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), high blood pressure, inflammation or infection and anyone who smokes.
Ultrasounds of the aorta and carotid arteries are available for $30 each as is the ABI testing. All three tests can be conducted for $75. Payment is due at time of service as insurance is not billed for this preventative testing.
For more information on OLBH and the Bon Secours Kentucky Health System, contact the OLBH CareLine at 606-833-CARE (2273) or visit BonSecours.com.