An arterial Doppler exam is a painless, non-invasive ultrasound test to check blood flow in the arteries of the arms or legs.
Arteries supply oxygen-rich blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
A Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to evaluate blood flow through the arteries in the arms or legs. This test can check to see if there are any blockages in the arteries. The arteries must be open in order for blood to flow and keep the body’s cells alive and healthy.
The inside wall of a healthy artery is smooth and firm, letting the blood flow freely. As we age, the arteries may be affected by atherosclerosis – or “hardening of the arteries.” The inner lining of the artery gets thick and rough, with a buildup of cholesterol or fat, like rust in a pipe. This buildup is called “plaque,” and it can cause the artery to get narrow or even close off completely – reducing or stopping the flow of blood. Atherosclerosis can occur in all arteries, but the ones in the heart, neck, and legs are the most commonly affected. A Doppler ultrasound exam can check for signs of atherosclerosis.
Learn more about arterial Doppler exam, including its definition, indications, the procedure itself, and post-procedure care.
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What is an arterial Doppler Exam?
An arterial Doppler exam, also known as an arterial ultrasound or arterial duplex scan, is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images and assess blood flow in the arteries of the arms or legs. This exam helps detect any narrowing (stenosis), blockages, or abnormalities in the arteries that could lead to conditions such as peripheral artery disease (PAD).
Who needs an arterial Doppler exam?
An arterial Doppler exam of the arm or leg checks for blockages in the arteries. Having blocked arteries can prevent blood from flowing into the affected area. This can lead to serious complications.
Reasons for an arterial Doppler exam can include having symptoms or risk factors for arterial disease, including:
- Claudication: Pain, cramping, or fatigue in the legs or buttocks during physical activity, which is relieved by rest.
- Rest pain: Persistent pain in the feet or toes, especially at night, indicating severe arterial disease.
- Non-healing wounds or ulcers: Sores on the legs or feet that do not heal properly due to poor circulation.
- Changes in skin color: Pallor, bluish color (cyanosis), or reddening of the skin.
Risk factors for peripheral artery disease include:
- Smoking: Significant risk factor for developing PAD.
- Diabetes: Increases the risk of arterial disease and complications.
- Hypertension: High blood pressure contributes to the development of arterial disease.
- Hyperlipidemia: Elevated cholesterol levels leading to the buildup of plaque in the arteries.
- Age: Increased risk with advancing age.
- Family history: History of peripheral artery disease or other cardiovascular conditions.
The test may also be used for:
- Post-surgical follow-up: Monitoring after procedures such as angioplasty, stenting, or bypass surgery.
- Surveillance: Regular monitoring of existing arterial disease to assess progression.
Arterial Doppler exam procedure
Preparation
Before having an arterial ultrasound, you will have a discussion with your health care provider about the reasons for the test and what to expect.
There’s typically no special preparation needed for an arterial Doppler, but be sure to follow any instructions from your health care provider.
What to expect
The arterial ultrasound is performed in a vascular lab. The test involves no needles, catheters, or dye. Ultrasound is used to the listen to the flow of blood through the arteries in your arm or leg.
You will be asked to lie down on your back on an exam table.
A gel will be applied to your arm or leg. The gel may feel warm, but it is painless. This gel helps the sound waves from your arteries show up on the test.
The health care provider will press a device called a transducer against the gel on your arm or leg. This transducer will transmit sound waves that create images on a computer screen to assess blood flow. Doppler technology measures the speed and direction of blood flow. This creates a whooshing sound you will hear during the test.
The exam typically takes about 30-60 minutes.
Post-procedure care
- Cleaning: The gel is cleaned off the patient’s legs.
- Immediate results: Preliminary findings may be discussed immediately, but the final report is usually reviewed by a radiologist or vascular specialist.
- Follow-up: Patients may be advised on further testing or treatment based on the results.
An arterial Doppler exam is a valuable, non-invasive diagnostic tool used to assess blood flow in the arteries of the legs or arms and detect potential blockages or narrowing. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms or have risk factors for peripheral artery disease, consulting with a health care provider will help determine the need for an arterial Doppler exam and develop an appropriate plan for monitoring or treatment based on the results.
