Medical Health Encyclopedia

Duplex/doppler ultrasound exam of extremity, vascular ultrasound

For infants and children:

The preparation you can provide for this procedure depends on your child's age and experience. For specific information regarding how you can prepare your child, see the following topics:

• Infant test or procedure preparation (birth to 1 year)
• Toddler test or procedure preparation (1 to 3 years)
• Preschooler test or procedure preparation (3 to 6 years)
• Schoolage test or procedure preparation (6 to 12 years)
• Adolescent test or procedure preparation (12 to 18 years)

How the test will feel:

Text Continues Below

---

There is no discomfort from the ultrasound device. You will feel tightening in your arm or leg if the pressure cuff is used. This pressure will last only a few moments.

Why the test is performed:

This test is done as an alternative to arteriography and venography, both invasive procedures with risks. It may help diagnose a blood clot or venous insufficiency, arterial occlusion (closing), abnormalities in the arterial 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.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org). The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2004 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.