How Performed:
The test is done in the ultrasound or radiology department.
To examine the veins: A water-soluble gel is placed on the transducer (a hand-held device that directs the high-frequency sound waves to the artery or vein being tested) and the skin over the veins of the extremity being tested. Blood flow on a Doppler examination creates a "swishing" sound. Both the superficial and deep venous systems are evaluated. Picture images are also obtained.
To examine the arteries: Blood pressure cuffs will be put around the thigh, calf, and ankle to examine the legs. In the arms, the blood pressure cuffs are placed at different points along the arm. A conductive paste is applied to the skin over the arteries being examined. The cuff will be inflated above the normal systolic blood pressure for the extremity. The transducer is placed near the cuff and the pressure in the cuff is released slowly. When the "swishing" is detected, that is recorded as the blood pressure. This is repeated for each cuff. Picture images may also be obtained.
How To Prepare:
Remove clothing from the extremity.
Infants and children:
The physical and psychological preparation you can provide for this or any test or procedure depends on your child’s age, interests, previous experience, and level of trust. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics as they correspond to your child’s age:
How It Feels: There is no discomfort.
Risks: There are no risks.
Why Performed: This test is done as an alternative to arteriography and venography. It may help diagnose a blood clot or venous insufficiency, arterial occlusion (closing), abnormalities in the carotid artery blood flow caused by a narrowing, and to evaluate trauma to the arteries. The test may also be used to monitor arterial reconstruction and bypass grafts.
Normal Values:
The veins show normal flow that varies with breathing. The veins should be fully compressible and have no internal clots.
The arteries have normal systolic and diastolic components on the ultrasound. There is normal blood pressure and no sign of a narrowing or closure. The normal ankle-to-brachial arterial blood pressure index is 0.85 or greater.
Abnormal Results:
- In the veins:
- In the arteries:
- Arterial occlusive disease
- Spastic arterial disease (arterial contractions brought on by cold or emotion)
- Embolic arterial occlusion (obstruction in the artery by a solid body such as a blood clot, fat globules, or air bubbles.)
Cost:
Special Considerations: Cigarette smoking may alter the results of the test because nicotine can cause the arteries in the extremities to constrict.
