Arterial and Venous Doppler Scans
Arterial and Venous Doppler Scans of the Upper and Lower Extremities are tests done using a handheld device (transducer) applied to the areas of the arms or legs where the arteries and veins are located. Sound waves are used to produce a visual image of the actual artery or vein, and to measure the blood flow in them. The scans can detect blood clots and problems with valves in the veins. The scan can also detect the severity and location of any blockages in the arteries that supply your legs or arms with blood flow. Your provider uses this information to determine the best course of treatment for you, if any is needed.
Preparation:
- No special preparation is needed
During the test:
- The technician will apply the transducer and warm gel to the area to be scanned. The test is painless and takes 30 – 60 minutes to complete
After the test:
- You may resume your normal activities
- If you are seeing your provider the same day, they will tell you about the test results at that time
- If the test is done on a day that you don’t see your provider, the nurse will contact you with information about the results after the provider reviews it, usually 7-10 days.