What is a Doppler ultrasound scan test?

Doppler ultrasound uses reflected sound waves to see how blood flows through blood vessels. It helps the doctor to assess the flow of blood through major arteries and veins, such as the arms, legs and neck. It can show blocked or reduced blood flow by narrowing the main arteries of the neck that may have caused stroke. It can also show leg venous thrombosis (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT) that can break loose and prevent blood flow to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).

 

How do I prepare for a Doppler ultrasound scan?

Only little preparation is required, but you may be required to wear short-sleeved or loose clothing. If you wear pants, your legs can be rolled up and useful. You can eat normally before the test. For testing, you will be asked to remove your socks/stockings and shoes.

 

What happens during the Doppler ultrasound scan?

You will be asked to put on a robe and lie down on the couch.

A water-based gel is placed on the skin corresponding to this area, and the hand-held instrument (transducer) is gently passed over the skin above the blood vessel. The room is usually darkened to eliminate screen reflections.

The transducer sends and receives sound waves amplified by the microphone. Sound waves bounce off solid objects (including blood cells). The movement of blood cells causes a change in the pitch of the reflected sound waves (called the Doppler effect). If there is no blood flow, the tone will not change. The information from the reflected sound waves may be processed by a computer to provide a graph or picture representing the flow of blood through the blood vessels.

 

Is there any sequelae associated with Doppler ultrasound scans?

Doppler ultrasound is safe and harmless. After the scan is complete, you can continue with normal activities.

Doppler ultrasound scans are noninvasive (without needles or needles) and are painless. The transducer may feel slight discomfort when moving around the skin. Before the test begins, please let Sonographer know if you are bidding in any area.

 

How long does it take for a Doppler ultrasound scan?

The length of the Doppler ultrasound scan depends on the area of ??the scan, which usually takes about 45 minutes.