Vascular Sonography FAQ
Vascular ultrasound is the general term for a non-invasive painless test that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to image blood vessels, including arteries and veins. Lower extremity venous ultrasound is typically performed if a clot in the vein is suspected (deep venous thrombosis or DVT).
Ultrasonography, commonly called Sonography, produces dynamic visual images of organs, tissues, or blood flow inside the body. Sonography can be used to examine many parts of the body, such as the abdomen, breasts, female reproductive system, heart, and blood vessels.
The process involves placing a small device called a transducer against the patient’s skin near the body part to be imaged. The transducer works like a loudspeaker and microphone because it can both transmit and receive sound, sending a stream of high frequency sound waves into the body that bounces off the internal structures. Different structures of the body reflect these sound waves differently, with the sounds detected by the transducer. These sounds are analyzed by a computer to make an image of the structure(s) on a television screen or that can be recorded on videotape.
Sonographers are non-physician professionals who perform ultrasound procedures. Sonographers who specialize in imaging and tests of blood vessels are known as vascular technologists.
A diagnostic Medical Sonographer is a highly-skilled professional who uses specialized equipment to create images of structures inside the human body that are used by physicians to make a medical diagnosis. Sonographers have extensive, direct patient contact that may include performing some invasive procedures. They must be able to interact compassionately and effectively with people who range from healthy to critically ill.
The area of specialization in the field of Sonography for the Vascular Sonography ATC program is valuation and analysis of the hemodynamics (blood flow) of peripheral and abdominal blood vessels.
We do not have a wait list for admission into the vascular sonography program. We use the program Selection Criteria to select applicants.
This advanced technical certificate is offered on the Melbourne Campus and begins each Summer Term and runs continuously through two Summer Sessions known as Sessions B and D on the EFSC Academic Calendar.
Clinical sites are utilized for the Practicum experience and it will be the student's responsibility to secure transportation to and from the assigned site. Students will follow a set course sequence within the program.
After the application deadline, all complete application folders will be submitted to the Selection Committee. All applicants will be notified by email of their acceptance status approximately two weeks after the deadline.
As a student in Eastern Florida State College's Vascular Sonography Advanced Technology Certificate program, you will be immediately introduced to the following professional association: Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography (SDMS).
Paid membership in this association is mandatory throughout the program. Benefits include access to industry-related information, special discounts, networking opportunities and additional tools to help you meet your career goals in the Sonography profession.
Sonographers can choose to work in clinics, hospitals, private practice physician offices, public health facilities, laboratories, and other medical settings performing examinations in their areas of specialization. Career advancement opportunities exist in education, administration, research, and in commercial companies as education/application specialists, sales representatives, technical advisors, etc.
Yes. The Vascular Sonography Advanced Technical Certificate program curriculum has been approved by the Florida Department of Education. Eastern Florida State College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC).