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Programs & Services - Medical Imaging

Ultrasound > Exams & Procedures > Doppler

A Doppler study exam looks at the blood vessels (arteries and/or veins) to see whether there any areas of dilatation, narrowing or blockage (clot). The vessels can include the veins of the abdomen, pelvis or legs. By-pass grafts, insertion of dialysis catheters, and fistulas can also be assessed.

  • The procedure takes about 30 minutes to one hour depending on the exam.
  • If you are having a Doppler study of the abdomen, you are asked not to eat any solid food or drink anything other than water eight hours before your appointment. Medication can be taken. For all other areas of the body, no preparation is required.
  • If you are diabetic please let the receptionist know at the time of booking your appointment.
  • You will be asked to lie down on a table with your abdomen uncovered.
  • An odourless and water-soluble gel will be put on your skin by the ultrasound technologist. This helps to transmit the sound waves and allows easy movement of the probe or transducer over the skin.
  • The technologist will move the probe along the skin, taking all the pictures required.
  • You may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds at a time. This will prevent the picture from being blurred by the movement of breathing.
  • You will be able to hear the sound of your artery or vein during the procedure.
  • The technologist will leave the room once all the pictures are taken in order to develop the images and show them to the radiologist before letting you leave.

Does this hurt?

No.

When will I get my results?

If you are seeing your doctor immediately after your ultrasound appointment, a hand written report preliminary will be given to you. If you are not seeing your doctor following the ultrasound test, a final report will be mailed to your doctor within seven days.