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Pulse volume recording (PVR) is a quick test that can detect underlying health problems, such as blood clots, partially blocked arteries, and peripheral arterial disease (PAD). At Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, in West Bridgewater, Massachusetts, board-certified cardiologist John Terzian, MD, FACC, and the team provide PVR testing. PVR tests are for people who experience inexplicable leg and foot pain when walking and exercising. Call Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, today to schedule a pulse volume recording consultation, or book your visit online.
Pulse Volume Recording Q & A
What is a pulse volume recording test?
A pulse volume recording (PVR) test measures how well blood flows to your legs. More specifically, it uses ultrasound (high-frequency sound waves) to assess circulation through your arteries. This lets Dr. Terzian identify circulatory problems, such as peripheral artery disease (PAD) and blood clots, that don’t always present obvious symptoms.
A PVA test is entirely noninvasive. No needles or incisions are involved, so there’s no downtime or recovery period.
Am I a candidate for a PVR test?
Dr. Terzian may recommend a PVR test if you have symptoms of PAD, such as:
- Inexplicable pain in the buttocks, hips, legs, and feet when walking or exercising
- Hair loss on the lower extremities
- Slow or non-healing sores or ulcers on the legs and feet
- Skin discoloration
- Numbness, weakness, or tingling in the legs and feet
PVR testing can also help Dr. Terzian locate blood clots and other blockages in the legs. So, he may recommend this test if he worries about your risk of these problems.
What can I expect during a pulse volume recording test?
A pulse volume recording test averages 30-60 minutes.
Before the test, you change into a gown and sit on an exam table. Then, you have blood pressure cuffs placed on your arms, upper and lower thighs, calves, ankles, and big toes. A special gel is also applied to your skin to help with the ultrasound.
After placement of the cuffs, they are inflated. This makes the cuffs tighten, but it shouldn’t cause any pain. Next, a handheld device, called a transducer, is run over different parts of your leg.
The transducer emits high-frequency sound waves that penetrate your skin and bounce off the structures inside your legs. A computer collects these signals and translates them into images, allowing Dr. Terzian to evaluate circulation in your legs and feet. The images can also detect underlying problems, such as blockages and blood clots.
After the test, Dr. Terzian analyzes your results and makes personalized treatment recommendations.
What do the results of my pulse volume recording test mean?
The results of a PVR test compare the blood pressure in your arms to the blood pressure in your legs. If the results confirm the blood pressure in your legs is lower than in your arms, you may have arterial disease. PVR test results can also help Dr. Terzian identify blockages or narrowed arteries that increase the risk of other circulatory issues.
Call Bridgewater Primary Care & Cardiology, LLC, today to schedule a pulse volume recording test (PVR), or book your appointment online.