Vascular Ultrasound

This diagnostic technique does not require the use of contrast agents or exposure to radiation. It is an absolutely safe procedure with no contraindications.
When vascular ultrasound is indicated
Ultrasound Doppler imaging is a visual diagnostic test used to analyze blood circulation in the body’s blood vessels and to assess the health of veins and arteries in the neck, abdomen, upper and lower limbs.
The main indications for vascular ultrasound include:
•        The need to study blood flow in arteries and veins (for example, in cases of varicose veins).


•        Detection of venous or arterial thrombosis.


•        Diagnosis and evaluation of varicose vein disease.


•        Measurement of maternal-fetal blood flow through the placenta during pregnancy.


•        Detection of aneurysm or vascular dilation.


•        Detection of narrowing (stenosis) or occlusion of veins and arteries.


•        Detection of vascular tortuosity or hypoplasia.


Main types of vascular ultrasound examinations
Although Doppler ultrasound can be used to assess almost any part of the body, the most common types of studies are:
Lower limb ultrasound
Usually indicated to detect varicose veins, thrombosis, or vascular narrowing. It is also used to assess blood flow before surgery in this area or to evaluate symptoms of venous or arterial insufficiency.
Upper limb ultrasound
This Doppler study is indicated to detect thrombosis in the arm vessels. It is important, as thrombus formation in the upper limbs carries a risk of pulmonary embolism.
Pregnancy ultrasound
Fetal Doppler ultrasonography is prescribed to assess the blood vessels and blood flow velocity in the umbilical cord and placenta, to monitor changes in fetal circulation, and to evaluate fetal oxygenation and heart rate.
In addition to routine scans, this study may be indicated when the physician suspects conditions such as intrauterine growth restriction, gestational diabetes, changes in amniotic fluid volume, twin pregnancy, or decreased fetal movement.
Thyroid ultrasound
An endocrinologist may order thyroid Doppler ultrasound to evaluate vascular characteristics and plan a biopsy. It is also useful for identifying potentially malignant nodules, as increased vascularity may be a suspicious feature.
Doppler ultrasound of the head and neck vessels
The carotid arteries supply blood from the heart to the brain, and sometimes they develop obstructions, stenosis, or excessive tortuosity, which may cause dizziness, fainting, or even stroke.
Carotid Doppler ultrasound is therefore prescribed to assess the risk of stroke or to help identify the cause in patients with a history of cerebrovascular accident.
Renal artery ultrasound
Doppler ultrasound of the renal arteries is usually ordered by a nephrologist to study blood flow and identify stenosis or occlusion that may cause refractory hypertension. It can also help detect renal size reduction, aneurysms, or vessel malformations.
Aortic Doppler ultrasound
This examination is indicated to assess aortic dilation or aneurysm, often associated with hypercholesterolemia, cardiac disease, or smoking. It is also important for diagnosing aortic dissection and for detecting atherosclerotic plaques that may cause vessel occlusion.
Aortic Doppler imaging is also essential in planning surgical correction of aortic pathologies.
According to recent research in phlebology and vascular surgery, regular vascular ultrasound examinations in at-risk patients can effectively aid in the early diagnosis of aneurysms and allow timely treatment.
Preparation for the examination
Usually, no special preparation is required.
However, before abdominal studies (aortic or renal artery Doppler), patients should avoid fatty foods, dairy products, and carbonated beverages the day before and maintain complete fasting for at least 8 hours.
The physician may also recommend mild laxatives to clear the intestines and reduce gas formation, which may interfere with imaging.
How the examination is performed
Using an ultrasound device, arterial vessels transporting blood are visualized. With a transducer placed on the skin, the specialist can measure vessel wall thickness and evaluate blood flow velocity at specific sites.
The test can also detect stenosis (narrowing caused by plaques), congenital vessel hypoplasia, vascular malformations, or vessel compression by adjacent tissues.
The patient may lie on the examination table or stand (for lower limb studies). The specialist applies gel to the skin and probe, which is easily removed afterward.
The physician then moves the transducer to direct ultrasound waves toward the vessels being examined. The patient may hear the sound of blood flow in the arteries.
The sound waves create a real-time image on the monitor, allowing immediate assessment of any abnormalities.
Advantages of vascular ultrasound at Expert Clinics
Our medical center uses the most advanced technologies to obtain detailed images and precise vascular measurements.
Our physicians are experts in Doppler ultrasonography and have extensive experience in vascular evaluation.
Additionally, the doctors at Expert Clinics possess knowledge in anti-aging medicine, allowing them to diagnose and treat various pathologies more effectively than practitioners using only traditional protocols.