Doppler Ultrasound

Doppler ultrasound is a type of medical imaging that helps to produce detailed images of the internal structures of the body. It is commonly used to assess blood flow in various parts of the body, including the veins, carotid vessels, and the heart. It uses reflected sound waves to produce images of the organs and vessels within, allowing doctors to diagnose and monitor conditions like cardiovascular disease, aneurysms, and certain cancers.

Preparation for Doppler Ultrasound

Patients should not to eat or drink for four hours before the appointment. Patients may be asked to remove clothing and any metal jewelry, and change into a hospital gown. Gel may be used during the examination.

Procedure

During the procedure, the patient lies on the examination table, and a transducer – a device that emits and receives sound waves – is placed on the skin. The device is guided over the surface of the skin to produce a moving image of the organs or vessels within. Several images are taken, and these can be viewed on a computer monitor.

Types

There are two main types of Doppler ultrasound: color Doppler and spectral Doppler. Color Doppler ultrasound is commonly used to create two-dimensional images of the blood vessels, while spectral Doppler produces signals that allow the doctor to measure the flow, direction, and speed of the blood.

Risks

Doppler ultrasound is considered a low-risk procedure. It does not use any radiation and can produce accurate images of the internal organs and tissues without any discomfort to the patient. However, in rare cases, complications such as burns or fatigue can occur.

Why and When Is Doppler Ultrasound Used?

Doppler ultrasound is used to diagnose and monitor conditions such as stroke, aneurysms, deep vein thrombosis, tumors, and congenital heart disease. It is also used to guide many medical procedures, including heart catheterization and ablation. It is usually ordered by a doctor as part of their diagnostic workup.