What is a duplex venous lower extremity?

A Venous Duplex Scan is a type of dedicated ultrasound to look at the venous system. The ultrasound uses sound waves to see the veins and evaluate blood flow within them. This exam is commonly used for veins in the legs and abdomen, but it can be applied to any other veins such as the neck or arms.

What is a venous duplex of bilateral lower extremities?

During a lower extremity venous duplex scan, the veins in the legs and ankles are viewed. A special jelly is placed on the area being examined while a wand like device called a transducer is passed lightly over the skin over the vein.

What is a bilateral lower extremity ultrasound?

Overview. A lower extremity ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging test used to evaluate the blood flow through the legs’ major veins. A Doppler ultrasound will measure your blood flow and blood pressure by bouncing high-frequency sound waves off the red blood cells circulating in the legs.

What is a bilateral venous ultrasound?

Venous ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the veins in the body. It is commonly used to search for blood clots, especially in the veins of the leg – a condition often referred to as deep vein thrombosis. Ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation and has no known harmful effects.

How do you prepare for a vascular ultrasound?

General Vascular Ultrasound Preparation

  1. Adults: Do not eat or drink eight hours before exam.
  2. Children: Do not eat or drink four hours before study, or skip one meal.
  3. Take medications with a small sip of water.
  4. If you are diabetic, please take your insulin.

How long does a venous duplex take?

You will hear the sound of moving blood during the exam. Do not be alarmed; it is harmless. Your exam will take approximately 15 to 30 minutes.

How long does a venous duplex ultrasound take?

How is a duplex ultrasound performed?

A wand, called a transducer, is moved over the area being tested. This wand sends out the sound waves. A computer measures how the sound waves reflect back, and changes the sound waves into pictures. The Doppler creates a “swishing” sound, which is the sound of your blood moving through the arteries and veins.

What do you wear for a leg ultrasound?

You will need to wear blood pressure cuffs on your arms and legs for this test. For most ultrasound exams, you will be asked to lay on the exam table. A pair of shorts may be provided as the ultrasound gel may get on your clothing.