Answers
Frequently asked questions
Everything patients most often ask about screening, appointments and treatment. If your question is not here, please phone the rooms — we are happy to explain.
About screening
What happens during a vascular screening appointment?
A trained vascular scientist performs a painless ultrasound scan of your aorta, the arteries in your neck and the circulation in your legs. Nothing is injected, nothing is uncomfortable, and you stay fully clothed apart from lifting your shirt for the abdominal scan. The scan itself takes about 15 minutes.
How long does the screening take?
About 15 minutes for the scan. Allow around 45 minutes in total for arrival, the scan and a short discussion of your results.
Does the screening hurt?
No. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation or needles. You will feel only the warm gel and the probe resting on your skin.
When will I get my results?
In most cases you are given your results on the day, in person. If anything needs further attention, a consultant is on hand to explain what it means and what happens next.
Who should be screened?
Anyone over 55, and anyone at any age with a family history of aneurysm, stroke or peripheral arterial disease, a history of smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes or kidney disease.
Is the screening covered by health insurance?
Most Irish health insurance plans cover non-invasive vascular testing when you have a referral letter from your GP. Please check your own policy with your insurer before your appointment.
Do I need a GP referral letter?
Yes. A referral letter from your GP is required before an appointment can be booked, and your insurer will normally ask for it too. You can still send us the request form first — we will contact you and explain exactly what your GP needs to send.
Where does the screening take place?
At the Galway Clinic, Doughiska, Co. Galway — a private hospital on the eastern edge of Galway city. Paid on-site parking is available.
Do I need to fast or prepare in any way?
For the abdominal aorta scan it helps to avoid a heavy meal beforehand, but no fasting or medication change is required. Continue all your usual medicines.
What happens if the scan finds something?
Most findings are managed with lifestyle advice, medication and a repeat scan. If treatment is needed, Prof Sultan and his team can care for you in the same unit, with keyhole options for most conditions.
Appointments, referrals and insurance
Who is Professor Sherif Sultan?
Professor Sherif Sultan is a consultant vascular and endovascular surgeon based at the Galway Clinic and University Hospital Galway, with four decades of experience. He is Professor of Vascular and Endovascular Surgery at the University of Galway, Chairman of the Western Vascular Institute, Clinical Vascular Lead for the Saolta University Health Care Group, and President of the International Society for Vascular Surgery.
How do I make an appointment with Prof Sultan?
You need a referral letter from your GP. Ask your GP to send it to Vascularsultan@blackrockhealth.com, or complete the request form on this site and Dee, Prof Sultan's personal assistant, will contact you to arrange the appointment. The office is open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm on +353 (91) 720 122.
What are the opening hours?
The rooms are open Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm. There are no clinics at the weekend — if you need urgent care on a Saturday or Sunday, go to the Emergency Department at University Hospital Galway or call 112 or 999.
What conditions does Prof Sultan treat?
Abdominal and thoracic aortic aneurysm, aortic dissection, carotid artery disease and stroke prevention, peripheral arterial disease and critical limb ischaemia, varicose veins and venous disease, chronic leg ulcers, diabetic foot disease, and visceral, mesenteric and renal artery disease.
Where does Prof Sultan practise?
At the Galway Clinic in Doughiska, Co. Galway, and within the public vascular service in the west of Ireland.
Can I bring someone with me?
Yes. You are very welcome to bring a family member or friend to your appointment, and we encourage it if you would like a second pair of ears.
