Venous Duplex Examination for Upper and Lower Extremities

The Vascular Center at Mercy Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland, offers comprehensive diagnosis and treatment of circulatory system conditions. The Center’s nationally accredited Vascular Laboratory allows our vascular specialists to provide a variety of tests including venous duplex ultrasound.

What is a Venous Duplex Ultrasound?

A venous duplex ultrasound will examine the blood vessels and blood flow in the legs and feet (lower extremities). Patients with leg pain or swelling may be experiencing blood flow problems in the veins. Vein problems are among the most chronic conditions in the United States. Leg pain or swelling may be the result of deep vein blood clots, varicose veins, wounds on the ankles or feet or peripheral arterial disease.

The most accurate and detailed test for vein conditions is a non-invasive venous duplex ultrasound. It combines the imaging capability of ultrasound with the recording capability of a Doppler ultrasound.

How is a Venous Duplex Ultrasound performed?

A venous duplex 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. Different angles of the area may be examined, so patients may have to lie in different positions to get an image. The images are always reviewed by a vascular surgeon. No preparation is required for this test.

Who should get Venous Duplex Ultrasound?

Patients are required to obtain a physician prescription for the test. It is the first step in diagnosing potential vascular conditions in the lower extremities.