The increasing activity of a vascular ultrasound service.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the change in activity of a vascular ultrasound service over 7 years.


METHODS
Retrospective review.


METHODS
Vascular studies unit, University hospital.


METHODS
Audit of the number of vascular ultrasound tests carried out over the last 7 years using a prospective computerised database.


RESULTS
Data shows that the overall workload has tripled over the 7-year period. In addition the complexity of investigations has increased during this time. The number of carotid scans has increased four-fold while the number of graft surveillance scans and vein scans has increased seven-fold. Assessment of lower limb arteries has developed from simple pressure measurements to detailed ultrasound scans and, as a consequence, the number of diagnostic angiograms has fallen by 75%. The factors that have influenced these changes are discussed.


CONCLUSIONS
There has been an important increase in the role of colour Doppler ultrasound as it becomes the "first line" vascular diagnostic test. However this trend can only continue if vascular ultrasound services are appropriately resourced. It is therefore essential to maintain an efficient audit system.
Thrush
A J
AJ
Department of Medical Physics, Leicester Royal Infirmary, U.K.
Reid
A B
AB
Naylor
A R
AR
London
N J
NJ
Bell
P R
PR
D000792:Angiography / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D000842:Ankle / Q000502:physiology; D001794:Blood Pressure; D002339:Carotid Arteries / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D008485:Medical Audit; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013503:Surgery Department, Hospital; D019737:Transplants; D018608:Ultrasonography, Doppler / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D014680:Veins / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging