Ultrasound is a very safe and accurate investigative tool used to assess blood vessels (veins and arteries) throughout the body. Ultrasound uses harmless high frequency inaudible sound waves to obtain images. Ultrasound waves are not dangerous or irritating to adults or children.
Overview
We use the latest in ultrasound technology to provide excellent image quality for medical diagnosis in a wide range of areas including vascular assessment of many regions in the body. Our sonographers and specialist radiologists are highly trained and experienced in all facets of vascular ultrasound imaging.
We use high resolution colour Doppler ultrasound, permitting accurate non-invasive evaluation of the blood vessels throughout the body. Colour Doppler allows us not only to hear, but to clearly see blood flow within vessels, allowing an accurate diagnosis faster.
We perform a comprehensive range of high resolution colour Doppler real time dynamic vascular procedures including but not limited to:
- Carotid Artery Doppler Assessment
- Peripheral (arm and leg) Venous Doppler Assessment for deep venous thrombosis
- Doppler Venous Incompetency Assessment of the leg
- Renal Artery Doppler Assessment
- Leg Arterial Doppler Assessment
Preparing for a Doppler Ultrasound
Please bring your referral (letter from your doctor) and your Medicare and/or Pension Health care card with you to your appointment. It is important to bring all previous imaging and reports relating to the region being imaged. Please arrive on time for your appointment to ensure there is sufficient time available to perform the procedure.
Depending on the area to be scanned you may be asked to follow special instructions. Continue to take all your usual medications. You will be given all the relevant information when making your appointment. Vascular Doppler scans usually require no special preparation except Renal Doppler where a 12 hour fast is required.
Scanning
The ultrasound waves are transmitted and collected via a hand held probe which is moved over the part of the body being investigated. You will not feel any pain or discomfort.
You may be asked to change into a gown.
Scanning times vary between 15 and 60 minutes. A highly trained sonographer will conduct the study and a specialist may also participate in the examination.
Results
After the procedure the results will be reported by a specialist.
We strongly advise that you return to your referring doctor, in order for your doctor to discuss your radiology report with you.
FAQs
What is Doppler ultrasound used for?
A Doppler ultrasound may help diagnose many conditions including:
- Blood clots
- A blocked artery (arterial occlusion)
- Poorly functioning valves in your leg veins (venous insufficiency)
- Decreased blood circulation into your legs (peripheral artery disease)
- Bulging arteries (aneurysm)
- Narrowing of an artery, such as those in your neck (carotid artery stenosis)
Will I be exposed to radiation?
No. Ultrasound is a very safe and accurate investigative tool used to assess many organs in the body. Ultrasound uses harmless high frequency inaudible sound waves to obtain images. Ultrasound waves are not dangerous or irritating to adults or children.
Can the sonographer check other areas I am concerned about?
No, the sonographer is limited to what your doctor has requested. Please discuss with the sonographer any questions or concerns you may have as they may aid in your diagnosis.
Can I have a female sonographer/technician to perform the scan?
Yes, please let reception know when making your appointment. We have female radiographers and sonographers sensitive to the needs of female patients.
Will the sonographer performing my scan tell me what’s wrong?
It is the sonographer’s duty to perform the test and ensure the images are of high quality for the radiologist (specialist doctor) to interpret them.
If your results are believed to be an immediate risk to your health, you may be directed immediately back to your doctor or a hospital.