Vascular

Carotid Doppler
Arterial Upper
Arterial Lower
Venous Upper
Venous Lower
Renal Arterial Doppler
Abdominal Aorta Doppler

Carotid Doppler

What is a Carotid Doppler?

A carotid doppler is an ultrasound imaging technique used to determine the presence of possible blockages in the carotid arteries that run on either side of the neck and carry blood to the brain. A carotid Doppler helps visualize the carotid arteries and the blood flowing through them.

Indications for a Carotid Doppler

A carotid doppler may be indicated if you have any of the following conditions which can increase your risk for a stroke:

High blood pressure
High cholesterol
Family history of stroke or heart disease
Coronary artery disease
Diabetes
Recent transient ischemic attack (TIA) or stroke
The procedure may also be indicated to determine whether previous surgery to treat a blockage of the carotid artery was successful.

Preparation for a Carotid Doppler

A carotid doppler does not require much preparation

Wear comfortable clothing without a collar or an open collar
Do not wear a necklace or long earrings

Procedure of Carotid Doppler

You will be instructed to lie on a table, usually on your back. The doctor or technician will apply a clear gel to your skin over each carotid artery to help transmit the ultrasound waves.
A device called a transducer, which emits sound waves, is gently pressed against the sides of your neck. The echoes of the waves bouncing off the tissues and blood cells are recorded.
The information is relayed to a computer that produces live images on a monitor and the rate of blood flow is represented by a graph.
You shouldn't feel any discomfort during the procedure.
It usually takes about 30 minutes to complete the test.

Post-Procedural Care Instructions for a Carotid Doppler

A carotid doppler is not associated with any side-effects and does not require any post-procedural care. You will immediately be able to resume your normal activities. The results of your study are often immediately available. If a blockage is discovered, your doctor will recommend the appropriate treatment.

Arterial Upper Ultrasound

What is an Arterial Upper Ultrasound?

An arterial upper ultrasound, also called an arterial upper extremity ultrasound or an upper extremity arterial doppler, is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the arteries that supply blood to the arms, hands, and fingers.

Why is an Arterial Upper Ultrasound done?

An arterial upper ultrasound is done to evaluate the blood flow and detect any problems in the arteries of the upper extremities, such as narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, dissection, or injury. These problems can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, coldness, or weakness in the arms, hands, or fingers. They can also increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, or gangrene.

How do you prepare for an Arterial Upper Ultrasound?

To prepare for an arterial upper ultrasound, you may need to do the following:

Tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies that you are taking, as some of them may affect the test results.
Avoid smoking, drinking caffeine, or eating a heavy meal for a few hours before the test, as these may interfere with the blood flow in the arteries.
Wear a comfortable shirt with sleeves that can be easily rolled up, as the ultrasound probe will be placed on your arms and wrists.
Remove any jewelry, watches, or bracelets that may interfere with the test.

How is an Arterial Upper Ultrasound performed?

An arterial upper ultrasound is performed by a trained technician or a doctor. The test usually takes about 30 minutes and involves the following steps:

You will lie down on an exam table and have a gel applied to your arms and wrists to help the ultrasound probe glide smoothly over your skin.
The technician or the doctor will move the probe over your arms and wrists and press it gently to obtain images of your arteries. You may hear a whooshing sound, which is the sound of your blood flowing through the arteries.
The images will be displayed on a monitor and recorded for further analysis. The technician or the doctor will measure the diameter, the thickness, and the speed of the blood flow in your arteries, and look for any signs of narrowing, blockage, or other problems.
The gel will be wiped off your arms and wrists and you will be able to resume your normal activities.

What are the risks of an Arterial Upper Ultrasound?

An arterial upper ultrasound is a safe and harmless test that does not use any radiation or needles. There are no known risks or complications associated with the test. However, if you have any allergies or sensitivities to the gel or the probe, you may experience some skin irritation or discomfort. You should inform your doctor or the technician if you have any concerns or questions before or during the test.

What are the benefits of an Arterial Upper Ultrasound?

An arterial upper ultrasound has many benefits, such as:

It is a simple and painless test that does not require any anesthesia or incisions.
It is a reliable and accurate test that can diagnose and monitor arterial problems in the upper extremities, such as peripheral artery disease, Raynaud's phenomenon, or thoracic outlet syndrome.
It can help prevent serious complications, such as stroke, heart attack, or gangrene, by identifying and treating arterial problems early.
It can help plan and evaluate treatments for arterial problems, such as medication, surgery, or angioplasty.

Arterial Lower Ultrasound

What is an Arterial Lower Ultrasound?

An arterial lower ultrasound, also called an arterial lower extremity ultrasound or a lower extremity arterial doppler, is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the arteries that supply blood to the legs, feet, and toes.

Why is an Arterial Lower Ultrasound done?

An arterial lower ultrasound is done to evaluate the blood flow and detect any problems in the arteries of the lower extremities, such as narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, dissection, or injury. These problems can cause symptoms such as pain, numbness, tingling, coldness, or weakness in the legs, feet, or toes. They can also increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, or gangrene.

How do you prepare for an Arterial Lower Ultrasound?

To prepare for an arterial lower ultrasound, you may need to do the following:

Tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies that you are taking, as some of them may affect the test results.
Avoid smoking, drinking caffeine, or eating a heavy meal for a few hours before the test, as these may interfere with the blood flow in the arteries.
Wear comfortable clothing that can be easily removed or rolled up, as the ultrasound probe will be placed on your legs and feet.
Remove any jewelry, socks, or shoes that may interfere with the test.

How is an Arterial Lower Ultrasound performed?

An arterial lower ultrasound is performed in a hospital or a clinic by a trained technician or a doctor. The test usually takes about 30 minutes and involves the following steps:

You will lie down on an exam table and have a gel applied to your legs and feet to help the ultrasound probe glide smoothly over your skin.
The technician or the doctor will move the probe over your legs and feet and press it gently to obtain images of your arteries. You may hear a whooshing sound, which is the sound of your blood flowing through the arteries.
The images will be displayed on a monitor and recorded for further analysis. The technician or the doctor will measure the diameter, the thickness, and the speed of the blood flow in your arteries, and look for any signs of narrowing, blockage, or other problems.
The gel will be wiped off your legs and feet and you will be able to resume your normal activities.

What are the risks of an Arterial Lower Ultrasound?

An arterial lower ultrasound is a safe and harmless test that does not use any radiation or needles. There are no known risks or complications associated with the test. However, if you have any allergies or sensitivities to the gel or the probe, you may experience some skin irritation or discomfort. You should inform your doctor or the technician if you have any concerns or questions before or during the test.

What are the benefits of an Arterial Lower Ultrasound?

An arterial lower ultrasound has many benefits, such as:

It is a simple and painless test that does not require any anesthesia or incisions.
It is a reliable and accurate test that can diagnose and monitor arterial problems in the lower extremities, such as peripheral artery disease, Raynaud's phenomenon, or thoracic outlet syndrome.
It can help prevent serious complications, such as stroke, heart attack, or gangrene, by identifying and treating arterial problems early.
It can help plan and evaluate treatments for arterial problems, such as medication, surgery, or angioplasty.

Venous Upper Ultrasound

What is a Venous Upper Ultrasound?

A venous upper ultrasound, also called a venous upper extremity ultrasound or an upper extremity venous doppler, is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the veins that return blood from the arms, hands, and fingers to the heart.

Why is a Venous Upper Ultrasound done?

A venous upper ultrasound is done to evaluate the blood flow and detect any problems in the veins of the upper extremities, such as blood clots, valve dysfunction, inflammation, or congenital anomalies. These problems can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, redness, or warmth in the arms, hands, or fingers. They can also increase the risk of pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs.

How do you prepare for a Venous Upper Ultrasound?

To prepare for a venous upper ultrasound, you may need to do the following:

Tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies that you are taking, as some of them may affect the test results.
Avoid smoking, drinking caffeine, or eating a heavy meal for a few hours before the test, as these may interfere with the blood flow in the veins.
Wear a comfortable shirt with sleeves that can be easily rolled up, as the ultrasound probe will be placed on your arms and wrists.
Remove any jewelry, watches, or bracelets that may interfere with the test.

How is a Venous Upper Ultrasound performed?

A venous upper ultrasound is performed by a trained technician or a doctor. The test usually takes about 30 minutes and involves the following steps:

You will lie down on an exam table and have a gel applied to your arms and wrists to help the ultrasound probe glide smoothly over your skin.
The technician or the doctor will move the probe over your arms and wrists and press it gently to obtain images of your veins. You may hear a whooshing sound, which is the sound of your blood flowing through the veins.
The images will be displayed on a monitor and recorded for further analysis. The technician or the doctor will measure the diameter, the shape, and the speed of the blood flow in your veins, and look for any signs of blood clots, valve dysfunction, or other problems.
The gel will be wiped off your arms and wrists and you will be able to resume your normal activities.

What are the risks of a Venous Upper Ultrasound?

A venous upper ultrasound is a safe and harmless test that does not use any radiation or needles. There are no known risks or complications associated with the test. However, if you have any allergies or sensitivities to the gel or the probe, you may experience some skin irritation or discomfort. You should inform your doctor or the technician if you have any concerns or questions before or during the test.

What are the benefits of a Venous Upper Ultrasound?

A venous upper ultrasound has many benefits, such as:

It is a simple and painless test that does not require any anesthesia or incisions.

It is a reliable and accurate test that can diagnose and monitor venous problems in the upper extremities, such as deep vein thrombosis, chronic venous insufficiency, or varicose veins.

It can help prevent serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism, by identifying and treating blood clots early.

It can help plan and evaluate treatments for venous problems, such as medication, compression stockings, or surgery.

Venous Lower Ultrasound

What is a Venous Lower Ultrasound?

A venous lower ultrasound, also called a venous lower extremity ultrasound or a lower extremity venous doppler, is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the veins that return blood from the legs, feet, and toes to the heart.

Why is a Venous Lower Ultrasound done?

A venous lower ultrasound is done to evaluate the blood flow and detect any problems in the veins of the lower extremities, such as blood clots, valve dysfunction, inflammation, or congenital anomalies. These problems can cause symptoms such as swelling, pain, redness, or warmth in the legs, feet, or toes. They can also increase the risk of pulmonary embolism, which is a life-threatening condition that occurs when a blood clot travels to the lungs.

How do you prepare for a Venous Lower Ultrasound?

To prepare for a venous lower ultrasound, you may need to do the following:

Tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies that you are taking, as some of them may affect the test results.
Avoid smoking, drinking caffeine, or eating a heavy meal for a few hours before the test, as these may interfere with the blood flow in the veins.
Wear comfortable clothing that can be easily removed or rolled up, as the ultrasound probe will be placed on your legs and feet.
Remove any jewelry, socks, or shoes that may interfere with the test.

How is a Venous Lower Ultrasound performed?

A venous lower ultrasound is performed in a hospital or a clinic by a trained technician or a doctor. The test usually takes about 30 minutes and involves the following steps:

You will lie down on an exam table and have a gel applied to your legs and feet to help the ultrasound probe glide smoothly over your skin.
The technician or the doctor will move the probe over your legs and feet and press it gently to obtain images of your veins. You may hear a whooshing sound, which is the sound of your blood flowing through the veins.
The images will be displayed on a monitor and recorded for further analysis. The technician or the doctor will measure the diameter, the shape, and the speed of the blood flow in your veins, and look for any signs of blood clots, valve dysfunction, or other problems.
The gel will be wiped off your legs and feet and you will be able to resume your normal activities.

What are the risks of a Venous Lower Ultrasound?

A venous lower ultrasound is a safe and harmless test that does not use any radiation or needles. There are no known risks or complications associated with the test. However, if you have any allergies or sensitivities to the gel or the probe, you may experience some skin irritation or discomfort. You should inform your doctor or the technician if you have any concerns or questions before or during the test.

What are the benefits of a Venous Lower Ultrasound?

A venous lower ultrasound has many benefits, such as:

It is a simple and painless test that does not require any anesthesia or incisions.
It is a reliable and accurate test that can diagnose and monitor venous problems in the lower extremities, such as deep vein thrombosis, chronic venous insufficiency, or varicose veins.
It can help prevent serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism, by identifying and treating blood clots early.
It can help plan and evaluate treatments for venous problems, such as medication, compression stockings, or surgery.

Renal Arterial Doppler

What is a Renal Arterial Doppler?

A renal arterial doppler, also called a renal artery duplex scan or a renal artery ultrasound, is a noninvasive test that uses sound waves to create images of the renal arteries, which are the two large blood vessels that supply oxygen-rich blood to the kidneys.

Why is a Renal Arterial Doppler done?

A renal arterial doppler is done to evaluate the blood flow and detect any problems in the renal arteries, such as narrowing, blockage, aneurysm, dissection, or injury. These problems can cause symptoms such as high blood pressure, kidney failure, or abdominal pain. They can also increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, or kidney damage.

How do you prepare for a Renal Arterial Doppler?

To prepare for a renal arterial doppler, you may need to do the following:

Tell your doctor about any medications, supplements, or herbal remedies that you are taking, as some of them may affect the test results.
Avoid smoking, drinking caffeine, or eating a heavy meal for a few hours before the test, as these may interfere with the blood flow in the renal arteries.
Wear comfortable clothing that can be easily removed or lifted up, as the ultrasound probe will be placed on your abdomen and back.
Remove any jewelry, belts, or other objects that may interfere with the test.

How is a Renal Arterial Doppler performed?

A renal arterial doppler is performed in a hospital or a clinic by a trained technician or a doctor. The test usually takes about 30 minutes and involves the following steps:

You will lie down on an exam table and have a gel applied to your abdomen and back to help the ultrasound probe glide smoothly over your skin.
The technician or the doctor will move the probe over your abdomen and back and press it gently to obtain images of your renal arteries. You may hear a whooshing sound, which is the sound of your blood flowing through the arteries.
The images will be displayed on a monitor and recorded for further analysis. The technician or the doctor will measure the diameter, the thickness, and the speed of the blood flow in your renal arteries, and look for any signs of narrowing, blockage, or other problems.
The gel will be wiped off your abdomen and back and you will be able to resume your normal activities.

What are the risks of a Renal Arterial Doppler?

A renal arterial doppler is a safe and harmless test that does not use any radiation or needles. There are no known risks or complications associated with the test. However, if you have any allergies or sensitivities to the gel or the probe, you may experience some skin irritation or discomfort. You should inform your doctor or the technician if you have any concerns or questions before or during the test.

What are the benefits of a Renal Arterial Doppler?

A renal arterial doppler has many benefits, such as:

It is a simple and painless test that does not require any anesthesia or incisions.
It is a reliable and accurate test that can diagnose and monitor renal artery problems, such as renal artery stenosis, renal artery aneurysm, or renal artery dissection.
It can help prevent serious complications, such as stroke, heart attack, or kidney damage, by identifying and treating renal artery problems early.
It can help plan and evaluate treatments for renal artery problems, such as medication, surgery, or angioplasty.

Abdominal Aorta Doppler

What is an Abdominal Aorta Doppler?

An abdominal aortic doppler is a safe and painless diagnostic procedure that uses sound waves to produce real-time images of the aorta within your abdomen in order to detect abnormalities such as aneurysms.

How does an Abdominal Aorta Doppler Work?

Small pulses of inaudible, high-frequency sound waves are passed through the abdomen from a special handheld device known as the transducer, which is pressed against the skin. The sound waves bounce off the internal anatomical structures including the abdominal aorta and are captured by a sensitive receiver in the transducer. It is possible to measure the size, shape, and consistency of the abdominal aorta, based on the variations in the pitch and direction of the returning sound waves.

Preparation for an Abdominal Aorta Doppler

You will be given specific instructions, depending on your condition.

To evaluate the abdominal aorta, you need to avoid eating for 8-12 hours prior to the procedure.
Wear loose-fitting clothing as you need to uncover your abdomen for the procedure.

Abdominal Aortic Ultrasound Procedure

The procedure for an abdominal ultrasound involves the following basic steps:

You will lie on your back on an examination table.
A water-based gel will be applied to the skin over your abdomen to prevent the formation of air pockets between your skin and the handheld transducer that could block the sound waves.
The hand-held transducer is placed over the skin on your abdomen and moved back and forth to obtain the desired images, which can be viewed in real time on a monitor.
You will feel no discomfort during the procedure.
When the imaging process is complete, the gel will be wiped off your skin.
The entire procedure is usually completed in half an hour.

What happens after an Abdominal Aorta Doppler?

You can return to your routine activities after the procedure. A radiologist or trained doctor will analyze the images and send the report to your doctor, who will share the results with you.

Risks of an Abdominal Aorta Doppler

There are no known harmful effects from a standard diagnostic abdominal ultrasound procedure.

Benefits of Abdominal Aorta Doppler

Painless and non-invasive procedure
Does not involve the use of radiation
Produces clearer images of soft tissues compared to X-rays