A radiation-free real-time imaging study that visualizes blood clots, valve insufficiency, and flow disturbances in the veins of the arms and legs.
Indication
- Sudden pain, swelling, or redness in one leg or arm (suspected deep vein thrombosis, DVT)
- Thrombosis risk assessment after prolonged bed rest, surgery, or casting
- Chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, and a sense of heaviness in the legs
- Source investigation after unexplained pulmonary embolism
- Suspected blockage during follow-up of hemodialysis fistula or central venous catheter
- Evaluation of unilateral leg swelling during pregnancy
- Follow-up of patients with a history of thrombosis
Preparation
- No special preparation is needed; fasting is not required
- Wear comfortable clothing that exposes the area to be examined
- Bring any previous Doppler reports for comparison
- Inform the team in advance if there is a wound, cast, or dressing
How it's performed
- For upper extremity examination, the patient lies supine; for lower extremity, supine and, if necessary, prone position is used
- A gel that conducts sound waves is applied to the area to be examined
- Superficial and deep veins are systematically scanned with a probe
- A compression test is performed by gently pressing on the veins; a vein with a clot cannot be compressed (non-compressibility)
- Color and spectral Doppler record flow direction, velocity, and respiratory variation
- Valsalva and manual compression maneuvers are used to assess insufficiency in superficial and deep veins
- The procedure takes 20-40 minutes
Post-procedure
- There is no restriction after the procedure
- If acute thrombosis is detected, anticoagulant (blood-thinning) therapy is initiated promptly
- Follow-up Doppler examinations may be planned at the start of treatment and afterward
- If chronic venous insufficiency is identified, compression stockings and lifestyle recommendations are provided
- Adherence to treatment is important to prevent embolism
Risks
- Ultrasound does not contain ionizing radiation, so there is no known biological risk
- Temporary discomfort may occur during compression testing in an acutely painful leg
- Image quality may be limited in heavily swollen, casted, or very obese areas
- Additional imaging (CT/MR venography) may be needed to evaluate pelvic veins
FAQ
Is it performed on everyone with suspected DVT?
It is performed in patients deemed appropriate based on clinical evaluation and D-dimer results. Sudden unilateral leg swelling and pain are the most common indications.
Is the procedure painful?
It is generally painless. In patients with acute thrombosis, mild discomfort may be felt during the compression test.
If thrombosis is found, is treatment started immediately?
Yes. When acute DVT is detected, anticoagulant therapy is planned without delay following clinician evaluation.
Does a negative result rule out thrombosis with certainty?
If clinical suspicion is high, follow-up ultrasound or additional tests may be needed. The decision is made based on the clinical picture.
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