What is a bilateral arterial duplex scan?

Arterial duplex scan is a painless exam that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to capture internal images of the major arteries in the arms, legs and neck. A special jelly is placed on the area being examined while a wand-like device called a transducer is passed lightly over the skin above the artery.

What is the purpose of a duplex ultrasound?

A duplex ultrasound can show how blood flows to many parts of the body. It can also tell the width of a blood vessel and reveal any blockages. This test is a less invasive option than arteriography and venography.

How do you prepare for an arterial ultrasound?

General Vascular Ultrasound Preparation

  1. Adults: Do not eat or drink eight hours before exam.
  2. Children: Do not eat or drink four hours before study, or skip one meal.
  3. Take medications with a small sip of water.
  4. If you are diabetic, please take your insulin.

What is an arterial duplex?

Ultrasound is a procedure that uses sound waves to “see” inside your body. An arterial duplex ultrasound uses sound waves to create a color map of the arteries in your legs to identify: Narrowing of your vessels that may be causing leg pain when walking.

What does duplex mean in medical terms?

The term “duplex” refers to the fact that two modes of ultrasound are used, Doppler and B-mode. The B-mode transducer (like a microphone) obtains an image of the vessel being studied. The Doppler probe within the transducer evaluates the velocity and direction of blood flow in the vessel.

What is the difference between arterial Doppler and arterial duplex?

The duplex/doppler ultrasound test examines the blood flow in the major arteries and veins in the arms and legs. The test uses duplex ultrasonography to visualize the blood flow and doppler ultrasonography provides an audio means to hear the blood flow.

How long does an arterial duplex take?

You will hear unusual sounds as the technologist views and records the blood flowing through the veins and arteries in your legs. Your exam will take approximately 60 minutes; in some cases you will be asked to do some mild exercises, which can take longer.

What is a bilateral arterial ultrasound?

Ultrasound is a procedure that uses sound waves to “see” inside your body. An arterial duplex ultrasound uses sound waves to create a color map of the arteries in your legs to identify: Narrowing of your vessels that may be causing leg pain when walking. Resting leg pain.