Diagnostics · Doppler Ultrasound
Doppler ultrasound is a versatile diagnostic tool used to evaluate the movement of blood through the body’s blood vessels. This non-invasive test utilizes high-frequency sound waves to estimate the blood flow through arteries and veins. It’s useful for assessing various vascular conditions affecting different parts of the body including
- Venous
- Arterial
- Joint
Venous Doppler Ultrasound
- Detect Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): Identifies blood clots in the deep veins, usually in the legs, which can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs (pulmonary embolism).
- Assess Venous Insufficiency: Evaluates the efficiency of vein valves in the legs, important for conditions like chronic venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
- Monitor Venous Pressure: Useful in assessing the severity and treatment response in patients with chronic venous disorders.
Arterial Doppler Ultrasound
- Evaluate Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): Measures blood flow in the arteries to identify areas of narrowing or blockage, often in the legs.
- Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI) Testing: A specific use of arterial Doppler to compare blood pressure in the ankle and arm, which can help diagnose PAD.
- Pre- and Post-Surgical Assessment: Examines arterial grafts and stents in patients who have undergone procedures to improve blood flow.
Joint (Musculoskeletal) Doppler Ultrasound
Assess Joint Inflammation and Synovitis: Particularly useful in rheumatologic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, where blood flow increases around inflamed joints can be indicative of active inflammation.
Evaluate Tendonitis and Bursitis: Conditions typically associated with increased blood flow due to inflammation.
Detect Vascular Tumors or Malformations Near Joints: Including assessing the extent and blood supply of the tumor.
General Advantages of Doppler Ultrasound
- Non-invasive and Safe
- Real-time Results
- Diagnostic Precision
Doppler ultrasound is an essential tool in both vascular and musculoskeletal diagnostics, providing critical insights that guide the management and treatment of various conditions.
