Possible Complications
Most of the time there are no complications with this test.
Reasons for Test
Doppler ultrasound may be used to check blood flow to an area. It
may also be needed to check for injuries to blood vessels or see how treatment is
working. Common reasons to use it include:
- Look for the cause of blood pooling in legs, such as valve problems in leg
veins
- Heart valve defects and congenital heart disease
- Blockage in artery
- Peripheral artery disease
- Weakening of blood vessel walls called aneurysm
- Narrowing of an artery, such as carotid artery stenosis
- Check baby’s blood flow during a pregnancy
What to Expect
Prior to Test
The doctor may talk about:
- Other tests that may need to be done before this test.
- Fasting before the test, such as avoiding food or drink after midnight the night
before. Some people may need a full bladder for their test. The doctor may ask
them to drink 6 or more glasses of water without going to the bathroom.
- Current medicines, herbs, and supplements that you take and if you need to stop
taking them before the test.
The doctor may ask people not to smoke, as
it can interfere with test results.
Description of the Test
The doctor will put a gel on the skin over the area that will
be examined. The gel helps the sound waves travel between the machine and your
body.
The ultrasound machine has a hand-held device about the size
of a bar of soap. The device is pushed against the skin where the gel was applied.
The waves from the device bounce off blood cells or tissue and echo back to device.
The doctor can examine the images during the test. The images can also be saved for
later review.
The doctor may ask a person to change positions or hold their
breath during the test.
After Test
The gel will be cleaned off. People can go back to their
normal activities most of the time.
How Long Will It Take?
About 30 minutes to 1 hour
Will It Hurt?
No
Results
A radiologist will examine the images after the test. The
doctor will then discuss the results and any treatments that are needed.
Problems To Look Out For
After the test, call the doctor if symptoms get worse.
If you think you have an emergency, call for medical help right
away.