Doppler ultrasound
Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive test that can be used to estimate the blood flow through your blood vessels by bouncing high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) off circulating red blood cells. A regular ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images, but can't show blood flow.
Uses[edit | edit source]
Doppler ultrasound can estimate how fast blood flows by measuring the rate of change in its pitch (frequency). During a Doppler ultrasound, a technician trained in ultrasound imaging (sonographer) presses a small hand-held device (transducer), about the size of a bar of soap, against your skin over the area of your body being examined, moving from one area to another as necessary.
This test may be used to help diagnose many conditions, including:
- Blood clots
- Poorly functioning valves in your leg veins, which can cause blood or other fluids to pool in your legs (venous insufficiency)
- Heart valve defects and congenital heart disease
- A blocked artery (arterial occlusion)
- Decreased blood circulation into your legs (peripheral artery disease)
- Bulging arteries (aneurysms)
- Narrowing of an artery, such as in your neck (carotid artery stenosis)
Risks[edit | edit source]
Doppler ultrasound is a safe procedure that uses low-power sound waves. There are no known risks.
How to prepare[edit | edit source]
No special preparation is necessary to have a Doppler ultrasound.
What you can expect[edit | edit source]
During the procedure, you may need to remove some of your clothes, depending on which area is being examined. You may be asked to wear a gown. You'll lie on a table in a comfortable position.
The sonographer will spread a clear gel on your skin over the area being examined. The gel helps the transducer make secure contact with your body and eliminates air pockets between the transducer and your skin. The sonographer then presses the transducer against your skin and moves it along the area of your body being examined.
After the procedure, the gel is wiped off from your skin. The procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes.
Results[edit | edit source]
A radiologist trained to interpret Doppler ultrasound images will analyze the images and send a report to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss the results with you.
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