RPVI Exam Review Course and Examination Preparation:
The RPVI exam is offered by the ARDMS to determine competency in vascular interpretation. Pegasus Lectures, in collaboration with the Society for Vascular Ultrasound (SVU) and the Society for Vascular Surgery (SVS) offer RPVI Exam Review Courses, RPVI Exam Online Review eCourses, and patented RPVI Exam Simulation preparation. Pegasus Lectures also offers dedicated on-site customized review courses and targeted ultrasound physics materials to thoroughly prepare you for the RPVI credentialing exam.
About the RPVI Exam:
The RPVI exam is a four hour, computer-based exam offered year round. Once you submit all information to meet exam eligibility requirements, you will be given information to schedule your exam within a 90 day window at any of the Pearson VUE testing centers around the world. The published content outline and percentages for the RPVI exam are as follows:
Instrumentation and Ultrasound Physics
12-18%
Quality Assurance (Stats & Bioeffects)
2-8%
Extracranial Cerebrovascular
22-28%
Intracranial Cerebrovascular
1-4%
Peripheral Venous (UE and LE)
17-23%
Peripheral Arterial (UE and LE)
12-18%
Visceral Vascular
7-13%
Special Testing
5-11%
*Note: Reports from examinees indicate that the percentage of physics questions generally exceeds the percentage published on the content outline.
**There is a processing fee of $30 for AMA PRA Category 1 credits
RPVI Packages:
Because of the comprehensive nature of the RPVI exam, many physicians purchase an RPVI package to assist in their exam preparation. By purchasing materials in a package, significant discounts are realized.
The RPVI Review Seminar is offered by the Society for Vascular Ultrasound and Pegasus Lectures. This 2 1/2 day advanced course is taught by nationally and internationally recognized faculty, providing an in-depth review for physicians planning to sit for the ARDMS Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation (RPVI) Certification Exam. A combination of didactic lectures, case interpretation sessions and the popular "Quiz Time", this seminar offers the participants an interesting, comprehensive review of topics tested on the RPVI exam. Topics for the RPVI Review course include: ultrasound physics, Doppler, hemodynamics, quality assurance, extracranial, intracranial, UE arterial, LE arterial, arterial duplex, venous, visceral vascular, liver and kidney transplant, graft surveillance, aorto-iliac and endograft assessment, hemodialysis access, and case reviews.
Locations
2012 schedule TBD
CME
The University of Cincinnati designates this educational activity for a maximum of 22.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits Physicians should claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
New Release! Complete RPVI Vascular Physics and Vascular Specialty eCourse is now available!
The RPVI eCourses provide the complete course as offered at a live seminar but without travel time and expenses. The eCourses are delivered using Pegasus’s proprietary Pegasus Direct platform. Unlike rmost recorded lectures, Pegasus Direct allows dual streaming videos, with a viewable playlist. Additionally, the platform allows the course to be broken into digestible modules, which can be stopped and started at will so as to accommodate your busy schedule. Course features include optional full screen presentation, interactive questions, note-taking and the ability to create a dynamic review course of the specific topics on which you want more emphasis. This course is divided into 10 Vascular Physics modules and 14 Vascular Specialty modules. Prepare for the RPVI exam according to your schedule and timeline!
CME
The University of Cincinnati designates this educational activity for a maximum of 41 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s). Physicians should claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The University of Cincinnati is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to sponsor continuing medical education for physicians.
The perfect combination - the individualized attention and interaction of a seminar without associated travel costs. Small groups can customize their lecture topic and lecture dates to eliminate the time, cost and hassle of travel. Do your physicians want on-site physics preparation for the physics portion of the RPVI exam? We have the answer and will bring the solution to you.
Click on the Dedicated Lectures details link to complete a request form with your specific needs.
RPVI ExamSim Suite CD
The Society for Vascular Ultrasound, the Society for Vascular Surgery and Pegasus Lectures are pleased to announce the release of the RPVI Exam Simulation CD. Designed to provide an efficient method of preparing for the RPVI exam, this exam simulation contains two full-length practice exams following the content outline and structure of the actual exam (total of 16 exams). An interactive tutorial on test-taking strategies offers insight into unique logic and reasoning skills for multiple choice exams. At the conclusion of each exam, a patented intelligent analysis tool delivers a detailed report as to your specific areas of strengths and weakness and test-taking habits. Unlimited access is available to the extensive, detailed review section. By identifying and targeting your areas of weakness, this CD allows you to use your limited study time effectively! This CD is perfect for those planning to challenge the RPVI Exam or anyone who would benefit from an extensive review of vascular ultrasound testing.
CME
The University of Cincinnati designates this educational activity for a maximum of 24.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits
The RPVI Review Package A includes the RPVI eCourse and the newly released RPVI Exam Simulation CD. Since physics tends to be the topic of most concern to examinees, this package offers the perfect tools to easily and efficiently improve physics knowledge as well as review the clinical aspects of the RPVI Exam. This popular package allows you to target your preparation and use your limited study time effectively!
CME
RPVI eCourse: 41 CME AMA Category 1 Credits
RPVI Exam Simulation CD: 24.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits
Price
Retail: $949.90 (savings of $90)
VIP: $939.90 (savings of $100)
RPVI Review Package 2 - Most Popular/Best Value
The RPVI Review Package 2 includes the RPVI eCourse, the newly released RPVI Exam Simulation CD, and the definitive Essentials of Physics: The Board Review Book. This package offers a concise and efficient method to improve physics knowledge as well as review the clinical aspects of the RPVI Exam. This popular combination of RPVI board prep materials allows you to target your preparation and use your limited study time effectively!
CME
RPVI eCourse: 41 CME AMA Category 1 Credits
RPVI Exam Simulation CD: 24.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits
Essentials of Physics: The Board Review Book: 15.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits
Price
Retail: $998.90 (savings of $181)
VIP: $986.90 (savings of $193)
RPVI Review Package 3
The RPVI Review Package A includes the newly released RPVI Exam Simulation CD, the definitive Essentials of Physics: The Board Review Book, and the Unifying Physics Review DVD. Since physics tends to be the topic of most concern to examinees, this package offers the perfect tools to easily and efficiently improve physics knowledge as well as review the clinical aspects of the RPVI Exam. This popular package allows you to target your preparation and use your limited study time effectively!
CME
RPVI Exam Simulation CD: 24.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits
Essentials of Physics: The Board Review Book: 15.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credits
Price
Retail: $484.90 (savings of $95)
VIP: $399.90 (savings of $120)
Essentials of Ultrasound Physics: The Board Review Book
Frank Miele, the highly acclaimed author of Ultrasound Physics, 4th Edition, leads you through the key concepts of ultrasound physics in this unique NEW board preparation guide. Each brief chapter begins with a critical concept summary, followed by typical board questions. A thorough explanation is included with each question to not only prepare you for your exam but to improve your command of the subject. Physicians who have used this book have stated that this book is the easiest, fastest, and most approachable method for prep of the RPVI physics content. By providing an inside look at the key concepts and the test questions most often seen by exam takers, Essentials of Ultrasound Physics: The Board Review Book gives you the edge on your credentialing exam.
CME
Essentials of Physics: The Board Review Book 15 CME AMA/PRA Category 1 credits
Price
Retail: $84.95
VIP: $69.95
Unifying Physics Review DVD
In this 90 minute DVD, Frank Miele, President of Pegasus Lectures, presents a top level overview of ultrasound physics. The purpose of this DVD is to review the main ultrasound physics concepts and connect those concepts into a cohesive story that is both memorable and applicable. The ultrasound physics story is organized and discussed as it pertains to seven steps and/or choices that sonographers and physicians make each time they scan a patient. This review serves a great, easy to understand, expedient review of the physics principles included on the RPVI exam.
CME
Unifying Ultrasound DVD: 2 SDMS CME
Price
Retail: $95.00
VIP: $65.00
Physiological Testing Techniques and Interpretation
This extensively illustrated workbook by Bob Scissons provides a wealth of detailed, easy-to-understand information about performing accurate physiologic testing and testing procedures. Some of the topics covered include an overview of arterial and venous disease, differential diagnosis of extremity pain, stress testing, arterial and venous hemodynamics, recording devices, testing protocols for upper and lower extremities and waveform/pressure analysis. The book also includes diagnostic criteria for physiologic test procedures, illustrated case studies, reimbursement guidelines, and vascular website links. This book serves as a consice yet comprehensive review for physiologic testing principles covered on the RPVI exam.
CME
Physiological Testing Techniques and Interpretation: 5 SDMS CME
RPVI P1
The math covered in this module is foundational to the physics covered in all of the later modules. This module begins with a very brief review of math basics including, reciprocals, unit conversions, and equation manipulation. You will find significant emphasis placed on understanding the physical relationships between variables as expressed by mathematical equations. Then more advanced topics are discussed including the concept and application of logarithms, basic trigonometry, analog to digital conversion, the Nyquist Criterion, and constructive and destructive interference of waves. By learning the mathematical terminology and understanding the physical relationships between variables in physics equations, your ability to comprehend and answer test questions will significantly improve.
RPVI P2
In this module, we discuss the basic sound wave parameters and the physical interactions which take place when sound propagates through a tissue medium. This module covers topics including operating frequency, wavelength, propagation velocity, absorption, reflection, and refraction. This module is foundational for understanding system operations, artifacts, and bioeffects.
RPVI P3
This module begins by considering the fundamental limitation of continuous wave transmission, leading to the development of pulsed wave operation. Once PW is understood, transducers and image generation are discussed. Within this module the following topics are covered: advantages and disadvantages of PW relative to CW, PRP and PRF, image generation, frame rate, temporal resolution, lateral resolution, axial resolution, linear images, sector images, and curved linear images.
RPVI P4
Within this module we develop and discuss an ultrasound imaging system block diagram so that the various system knobs, buttons, and controls can be understood in the greater context of the interactions that take place within the ultrasound system. Special attention is given to discussion regarding signal to noise ratio and averaging techniques in ultrasound. In addition to discussing the transmit power, receiver gain, time gain compensation, video compression, and data storage, we discuss some advanced system features such as compound imaging, spatial averaging, multiple transmit foci, and harmonic imaging.
RPVI P5
We begin this module by learning basic Doppler theory including deriving the Doppler equation from a discussion of the Doppler Effect. After developing the Doppler equation, we discuss how the Doppler equation is applied in ultrasound. We will develop the Doppler system block diagram so that Doppler controls can be understood in the greater context of performing a clinical exam. In this section we will discuss the Doppler controls of transmit, receiver gain, signal detection, the Doppler wall filters, video compression, the PRF, Doppler spectral processing, and the spectral display. After we have completed the block diagram we will then be ready to discuss basic spectral interpretation, angular effects, and the parameters affecting aliasing.
RPVI P6
In this module, we discuss the application of the Doppler Effect in color Doppler imaging, including color Doppler gain, color scales, and color wall filters. Emphasis is placed on the ability to distinguish flow direction from a color image, regardless of transducer format, vessel tortuousity, and aliasing. Color Power Doppler (angio) is also discussed.
RPVI P7
The laws that govern fluid dynamics generally seem outside the intuitive grasp of many people. In this module we use simple thought experiments to derive the hemodynamic equations including the resistance equation, the simplified law of hemodynamics, the continuity equation, Poiseuille's Law, and the Bernoulli equation. Once the equations are derived, we discuss how to relate the Doppler spectral characteristics with the hemodynamic concepts just learned.
RPVI P8
In the previous modules, we have discussed much of the physics as it relates to the production of artifacts. In this chapter, we formalize the physics concepts through examples and our discussion of the underlying principles. In essence, artifacts are generated whenever an assumption of ultrasound is violated. In this module, we discuss the imaging artifacts of limited detail resolution, reverberation, grating lobes, refraction, shadowing, enhancement, multi-path, and mirroring. Once the imaging artifacts have been reviewed, we discuss Doppler artifacts such as aliasing, wall filter saturation, spectral broadening, blooming or blossoming, and flash.
RPVI P9
Although ultrasound is considered to be a very safe modality, there is a small potential risk of doing damage to tissues, referred to as bioeffects. Because of this risk, practitioners must make prudent use of ultrasound. In this module we integrate previously reviewed concepts to formalize our understanding of the two primary bioeffect risks, mechanical bioeffects, related to cavitation, and thermal bioeffects, related to temperature increase.
In the second part of this module, statistical test validation is covered. In this section, we learn the statistical parameters used to compare various aspects of a clinical test to be validated against a gold standard test. Once the statistical terms are discussed, the concept is further clarified by using a series of numerical calculations. This statistical information will also prove very useful for labs undergoing laboratory accreditation.
RPVI P10
The ability to perform well on a multiple choice test is a skill that requires both forethought and practice. In this module, some very unique techniques are taught which will significantly change your test taking approach, as well as improve your test taking abilities. Within this module we will discuss concepts which include how best to read a test question, how to approach answering a test question, types of questions, distracter types, dealing with questions of inversion, logic and reasoning skills, and intelligent use of scrap paper. Additionally, specific test questions are given which allow for direct application of these concepts.
RPVI V1: Extracranial and Cases
This module reviews the essential components of a carotid duplex examination. It begins by describing normal findings for grey-scale, spectral Doppler and color-flow imaging. Diagnostic criteria and pertinent findings are discussed. A variety of pathology is presented in numerous cases. Carotid cases are reviewed which include atherosclerotic disease of varying degrees of stenosis. An assortment of less common non-atherosclerotic pathology is also presented.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $50.00
VIP: $38.00
RPVI V2: Intracranial
Module 2 begins with a review of the anatomic components of the intracranial arterial system. Imaging techniques are covered including optimal transducer frequency, equipment presets, acoustic windows and hemodynamic parameters. Examples of spectral waveforms from the various intracranial vessels are provided including key diagnostic factors of imaging approach, vessel depth, direction of flow and mean velocity. Current applications for intracranial imaging are also discussed.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $35.00
VIP: $27.00
RPVI V3: UE Arterial and Cases
This module covers physiologic arterial testing for the upper extremity. Various modalities are reviewed including segmental pressures, pulse volume recordings and photoplethysmography. Diagnostic criteria for disease ranging from subclavian artery stenosis to digital disease are provided. Case presentations include arterial occlusive disease, vasospastic disorders and pathology associated with arteriovenous fistulae.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $35.00
VIP: $27.00
RPVI V4: LE Arterial and Cases
Module 4 reviews physiologic arterial testing used for the lower extremities. Techniques and criteria are explained for segmental pressures, Doppler waveform analysis and pulse volume recordings. Exercise testing indications and results are also explained. Normal findings are described and the impact of various disease states are discussed. Case presentations are included for the multiple testing modalities. These cases consist of a range of disease levels and severities.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $35.00
VIP: $27.00
RPVI V5: Arterial Duplex and Cases
Module 5 describes the utilization of arterial duplex imaging to detect extremity atherosclerotic disease as well as various non-atherosclerotic pathology including traumatic and iatrogenic injuries. Duplex ultrasound characteristics of extremity arteries will be reviewed focusing on grey-scale image findings, spectral Doppler waveforms and color-flow imaging attributes. The cases represent a variety of arterial pathology and some cases combine both physiologic and ultrasound findings.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $45.00
VIP: $34.00
RPVI V6: Venous and Cases
This module covers the duplex ultrasound of upper and lower extremity veins. Grey-scale image characteristics for normal veins are reviewed as well as diagnostic criteria pertaining to acute and chronic residual thrombus is discussed. Spectral and color Doppler features for both normal and disease states are described. Cases with various types of vascular pathology including acute thrombus, chronic residual thrombus and venous insufficiency are presented. Examples of other common non-vascular pathology that can be encountered during extremity venous ultrasound exams are also provided.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $45.00
VIP: $34.00
RPVI V7: Visceral Vascular and Cases
Module 7 begins with a review of the visceral vascular anatomy including key identification points. Mesenteric arterial physiology and normal and abnormal spectral waveforms are analyzed with an overview of current diagnostic criteria. Technical considerations for visceral imaging are discussed. A renovascular imaging section begins with a review of anatomy followed by discussions of physiology, normal and abnormal waveforms,diagnostic criteria and incidental findings. This module concludes with case presentations.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $45.00
VIP: $34.00
RPVI V8: Hepatoportal
This lecture on hepatoportal interpretation begins with a review of anatomy and physiology of the hepatoportal vessels. Disease states discussed include portal hypertension, coronary vein and esophageal varices, paraumbilical vein, collateral flow, intrahepatic and extrahepatic flow, and hepatofugal flow of the hepatic and splenic veins. Other topics include Budd-Chiari Syndrome, cavernous transformation of the portal vein, malignant portal vein thrombosis and normal and abnormal findings with TIPS.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $35.00
VIP: $27.00
RPVI V9: Liver and Kidney Transplant and Cases
Module 9 begins with a discussion of interpretation guidelines for liver and kidney transplants. After presenting the components of comprehensive liver and kidney transplant studies, Dr. Needleman discusses interpretation criteria, including waveform morphology. Case presentations allow you to utilize the diagnostic criteria presented to determine a final diagnosis.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $40.00
VIP: $30.00
RPVI V10: Graft Surveillance
Dr. Dawson begins this module with a review of indications for lower extremity revascularization and the benefits of surveillance. Early, delayed and late causes of vein graft failure are explored followed by a discussion of detectable bypass graft problems. The techniques of vein graft duplex and graft surveillance and diagnostic criteria for vein graft lesions are presented. A decision algorithm for vein graft stenosis is provided.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $30.00
VIP: $22.00
RPVI V11: Aorto-iliac and Endograft Assessment
This module reviews cases and poses questions related to the evaluation of Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA), iliac aneurysm and aortic endograft assessment. Gray-scale images, spectral Doppler and color Doppler data components of a thorough evaluation of the aorto-iliac segments are included in a variety of cases to refine and test your knowledge in this important area of study for exam preparation.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $45.00
VIP: $34.00
RPVI V12: Hemodialysis Access
Module 12 includes a review of A-V access types, common locations and indications for examination. Test protocol and equipment parameters are outlined. Normal and abnormal study findings are detailed along with case examples and questions to help assess your knowledge. Arterial steal testing is included in this evaluation of the topic.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $40.00
VIP: $30.00
RPVI V13: Quiz Time Part I
Everyone's favorite module - Quiz Time! Test your comprehension of the material presented in the RPVI Exam Review eCourse through a variety of case study presentations. Apply your knowledge of peripheral vascular diagnostic criteria and assess your preparedness for the RPVI exam.
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $45.00
VIP: $34.00
RPVI V14: Quiz Time Part II
This module provides additional case presentations and test questions to assess your preparedness for the RPVI. Apply the concepts you have learned throughout this RPVI Vascular eCourse to give you the edge on your exam!
CME
Pending
Price
Retail: $45.00
VIP: $34.00
RPVI Vascular Physics Modules
The RPVI physics section includes 10 modules and are approved for a maximum of 41 AMA PRA Category 1 credit(s). The course is taught by Frank Miele and begins with a brief overview of the exam as well as a foundational review of the foundational mathematics for the physics concepts and test questions. Ultrasound wave theory, system functionality, Doppler, Color Doppler, artifacts, bioeffects, and hemodynamics are all developed with many interactive questions similar to popular test questions included. Finally, a unique test-taking strategy session illustrates the logistics of taking this computer-based exam while simultaneoulsy pointing out valuable approaches to reduce stress and improve accuracy.
CME
The University of Cincinnati designates this educational activity for a maximum of 41 AMA PRA Category 1 credit(s). Physicians should claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The University of Cincinnati is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to sponsor continuing medical education for physicians.
The RPVI vascular section includes 14 modules and are approved for a maximum of 41 AMA PRA Category 1 credit(s). The expert faculty includes: Dawson, Needleman, Fogle, Kupinski, and Poe. The course is designed to follow the content outline, covering the topics of extracranial, intracranial, arterial and venous upper and lower extremity, arterial duplex, visceral vascular, hepatoportal, liver and kidney transplant, graft surveillance, endograft assessment, and hemodialysis access. Interactive cases are built in to simulate typical test questions. In addition, there are two quiz modules with multiple cases and questions to further test your preparedness for the exam.
CME
The University of Cincinnati designates this educational activity for a maximum of 41 AMA PRA Category 1 credit(s). Physicians should claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.
The University of Cincinnati is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to sponsor continuing medical education for physicians.