Doppler Ultrasound

What are the clinicians looking at?

A Doppler study exam looks at the blood vessels (arteries and/or veins) to see whether there are any areas of dilatation, narrowing or blockage (clot). The vessels can include the veins or arteries of the abdomen, pelvis, legs, arms or neck.

What is the preparation?

If you are having a Doppler study of the abdomen, you are asked not to eat any solid food or drink anything eight hours before your appointment. Medication can be taken. If you are a diabetic, please let the receptionist know at the time of booking your appointment. For all other areas of the body, no preparation is required.

What will the sonographer do?

You will be asked to lie down on a table with the region/body part to be scanned uncovered. An odourless and water-soluble gel will be put on your skin by the sonographer. This helps to transmit the sound waves and allows easy movement of the probe or transducer over the skin.
The sonographer will move the probe along the skin while taking pictures of all of the abdominal organs. You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time, for abdominal Doppler. This will prevent the picture from getting blurred out by the movement of breathing. You will be able to hear the sound of your artery or vein during the procedure.

The sonographer will leave the room once all the pictures are taken in order to develop the images or to discuss them with the radiologist or the sonographer will confirm the completion of the examination and direct you to the change room after which you will be free to leave.

You are asked to remain in the scan room until the sonographer has approval for you to leave.

How long does it take?

Between 30 minutes to over one hour depending on the exam.

When will I get my results?

If you are seeing your doctor immediately after your ultrasound appointment, a verbal report will be called or faxed to your Doctor. If you are not seeing your doctor after the ultrasound test, a final report will be faxed to your doctor with 24-48 hours.

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AdvantAGE Ontario

 Ontario Association of Radiology Managers - OARM

Ontario Association of Medical Radiation Sciences - OAMRS

College of Medical Radiation Technologists of Ontario - CMRTO

Independent Diagnostic CLinics Association - IDCA