Lower Extremity Arterial Doppler Studies

Description: The Arterial Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves at a frequency that is higher than humans are able to hear to produce images on a monitor for the purpose of evaluating the arterial blood flow to the lower extremities (legs).

Indication: The Arterial Doppler study is able to demonstrate blocked or reduced blood flow through the major arteries of the legs. It is used to evaluate:

·                            Numbness and tingling sensations in the feet and legs

·                            Sensation of fatigue and heaviness in the legs

Procedure: For the Arterial Doppler exam a blood pressure cuff is applied to each of the legs and a pressure is recorded for each extremity cuff. The pulse is also taken and recorded for each of the extremities.

The Arterial Doppler studies take approximately 60-90 minutes.

Preparation: None necessary