SPECIALIST OFFICE OF PHLEBOLOGY AND AESTHETIC MEDICINE

Doppler ultrasound, also known as Doppler sonography, is a non-invasive imaging test that uses sound waves to evaluate blood flow in blood vessels. It is a commonly used diagnostic method in the field of vascular medicine, including the examination of veins, arteries, and lymphatic vessels. Here is some information that may be useful for patients on the website of a vascular medicine clinic regarding Doppler ultrasound:

  1. Definition: Doppler ultrasound is a safe and painless examination that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize vascular structures and assess blood flow.
  2. Purpose of the examination: Doppler ultrasound is used to evaluate blood flow in vessels, identify any constrictions, clots, blood flow disorders, or vascular insufficiencies.
  3. Preparation for the examination: In most cases, Doppler ultrasound does not require any special preparation from the patient. It is only necessary to provide access to the area being examined (e.g., uncovering the limb).
  4. Procedure of the examination: The patient lies on an examination table, and a medical technician applies ultrasound gel to the skin to facilitate the conduction of sound waves. Using a specialized ultrasound probe, the medical technician moves the probe over the area of interest, capturing images of blood vessels and blood flow on a monitor.
  5. Safety and effectiveness: Doppler ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive examination that does not involve ionizing radiation. It is an effective diagnostic method for evaluating blood flow in blood vessels.
  6. Interpretation of results: The results of Doppler ultrasound are evaluated by a specialist physician who analyzes the images of blood vessels and blood flow. Based on these results, the physician can make a diagnosis and recommend further treatment or intervention.
  7. Applications: Doppler ultrasound is used in the diagnosis of various vascular conditions, such as varicose veins, thrombosis, atherosclerosis, lymphatic insufficiency, as well as in the evaluation of blood flow in arteries and veins.
  8. Painlessness and duration of the examination: Doppler ultrasound is a non-invasive and painless procedure.

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Contraindications for Doppler ultrasound may vary depending on the individual patient’s situation. Here are some examples of both absolute and relative contraindications that may affect the decision to perform this examination:

Absolute contraindications:

  1. Lack of patient consent for the examination.
  2. Allergy to the ultrasound gel used during the examination.
  3. Presence of wounds, ulcers, infections, or inflammation in the area being examined that may hinder the examination or affect the interpretation of results.
  4. Presence of dressings, casts, or other obstacles that prevent direct access to the area being examined.

Relative contraindications:

  1. Pregnancy: Doppler ultrasound is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but in some cases, the physician may decide to perform the examination only if the benefits outweigh the potential risks to the mother and fetus.
  2. Presence of severe pain in the area being examined that may affect the patient’s comfort during the examination.
  3. Technical difficulties, such as excessive fatty tissue, scars, or skin changes that may impede obtaining an accurate image of the blood vessels.

If there are any doubts or questions regarding contraindications for Doppler ultrasound, it is always important to consult with a physician or vascular medicine specialist. They will be able to assess the individual patient’s situation and decide whether the examination is appropriate and safe.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers:

Is Doppler ultrasound a painful examination?

No, Doppler ultrasound is painless and non-invasive. It involves applying gel to the skin and moving the ultrasound probe over the area of interest.

How long does a Doppler ultrasound examination take?

The duration of the examination may vary depending on the area being examined and the purpose of the examination. Typically, it takes from a few minutes to around half an hour.

Do I need to prepare specifically for a Doppler ultrasound examination?

In most cases, there is no need for special preparation before a Doppler ultrasound examination. However, there may be some exceptions, so it is advisable to consult with a physician or medical technician to obtain precise instructions.

Is Doppler ultrasound examination safe?

Yes, Doppler ultrasound examination is considered safe and does not involve ionizing radiation. It uses sound waves to create images of blood vessels and assess blood flow.

When will I receive the results of a Doppler ultrasound examination?

The results of a Doppler ultrasound examination are usually available within a few days. The specialist physician will analyze the collected data and prepare a report that will serve as a basis for further diagnostics or treatment planning.

Do I need a referral from a physician for a Doppler ultrasound examination?

In some cases, a referral from a physician may be required, but in many diagnostic clinics, Doppler ultrasound examinations can be performed without a referral.

Telephone

Reception hours

Pn-Pt Od 9:00 do 18:00