Vascular Diagnostic Services

Vascular Diagnostic Services (VDS), a component of the USA Vascular Center, was the first vascular laboratory of its kind created in the Greater Chattanooga region.

Developed by USA vascular surgeons, VDS began in 1982 as a mobile vascular lab offering ultrasound services to outlying hospitals in the region at a time in which those types of services were not offered in rural areas.

As hospitals developed their own ultrasound departments, VDS became more of a fixed vascular lab on the Erlanger campus, until moving to its permanent and current location at the Surgical Specialties Building.

VDS is a comprehensive vascular laboratory in an academic setting, and is accredited in all areas of vascular testing by the International Commission for the Accreditation of Vascular Laboratories (ICAVL). VDS serves seven vascular surgeons, and is supported by nine vascular techs - all of whom are registered RVTs through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Sonographers (ARDMS) - and four professional staff members.

VDS offers the most comprehensive vascular studies, utilizing the most up-to-date equipment and technology available. Vascular studies conducted at VDS assist in the diagnosis of such vascular disorders as venous disease, vascular disease, peripheral arterial disease, cerebrovascular disease and abdominal aortic aneurysm, and are interpreted by USA's vascular surgeons, all of whom have been working in the field of vascular surgery and vascular ultrasound for several years. VDS also offers patients a comprehensive vascular screening program for the early detection of vascular issues and disease.

USA vascular surgeons are all recognized by ICAVL as meeting strict standards for the interpretation of vascular exams.

In addition, VDS Medical Director Dr. Joel B. Clements and Dr. Sachin V. Phade have both acquired their Registered Peripheral Vascular Interpreter (RPVI) designation through the American Registry of Diagnostic Medical Technologists (ARDMT).

To schedule an appointment for a vascular study, please call us at (423) 765-1342.