More than 8 million Americans have Peripheral Vascular Disease (PVD).
It is one of the most common and dangerous Cardiovascular diseases.

• Peripheral Vascular Disease is a serious disease the affects millions of Americans over age 50.
• People with PVD have a two to six times greater chance of death from a heart attack or a stroke.
• Every 45 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke.
• PVD increases your chances of blood clots, heart attack, stroke, and even death.

Peripheral Vascular Screening
Early signs of cardiovascular disease can be caught and potentially treated before problems occur. A Peripheral Vascular Screening can help to determine your risk for CHD by assessing your risk for peripheral vascular disease (PVD). The screening is painless and non-invasive and takes about 30-minutes. Testing includes an abdominal aortic aneurysm screening, an ultrasound review of carotid arteries, and an ankle brachial index, all of which are completed at The Chester County Hospital and reviewed by a vascular surgeon:

Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Scan : An ultrasound scan of the aorta, the body's main artery. The scan can detect the presence of an aneurysm.

Carotid Scan : This scan consists of a quick ultrasound of the carotid arteries in the neck and a blood pressure check for hypertension. This exam can detect one of the most frequent causes of stroke - significant internal carotid artery stenosis.

Ankle Brachial Index : This is a comparison of the blood pressure readings from the arms and legs. This exam can quickly determine if there is an impairment in the circulation to the limbs due to peripheral vascular disease.

To learn more about Peripheral Vascular Screenings at The Chester County Hospital or to schedule a screening, call 610-738-2771.

The fee for this screening is $79*.
*Flexible spending funds can be used to pay for the screening.

AAA Screening Medicare Benefit
You may be eligible for a free Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Screening when you become a Medicare participant. As a participant, you are eligible for a one-time "Welcome to Medicare" physical exam within the first 12 months of your Medicare Part B effective date. During your exam, ask for a referral for an AAA screening and the cost for it will be covered.

Last Updated: 6/11/2010