Arterial Doppler Ultrasound for Upper and Lower Extremities

Non-invasive techniques like Doppler ultrasound have become the standard way of establishing the presence of arterial blockages in many areas of the body including the upper and lower extremity areas of the arms, legs and feet. Extremities may be the site of peripheral arterial disease (PAD), which affects millions of Americans. Peripheral arterial disease is a serious vascular condition that can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.

An arterial Doppler ultrasound is performed by a technologist who has been specially trained. A gel substance is placed on the skin of the area being evaluated and a small probe is rubbed over the area to obtain the images. The images are always reviewed by a vascular surgeon. Different angles of the area may be examined, so patients may have to lie in different positions to get an image. No preparation is required for this test. 

Patients are required to obtain a physician prescription for the test. It is the first step in diagnosing potential vascular conditions such as blockages, abdominal aortic aneurysms, narrowing of arteries or vein closure (venous occlusion). It is also the first step to relieving leg swelling, pain or cramping which is associated with PAD.