VENOUS DOPPLER PATIENT INFORMATION
A venous Doppler is an ultrasound of the veins. It can be performed on the veins in your arms or your legs. High frequency ultrasound is used to look inside the veins and examine blood flow.
Why is a venous Doppler performed?
The majority of venous Doppler exams are performed to look for blood clots or to evaluate blood flow and determine severity of venous insufficiency (varicose veins).
Can I eat or drink on the day of the test?
Yes. Eat and drink as you normally would the day of the exam. If you are having multiple tests on the same day, please review the instructions for each test.
Should I take my medications the day of the test?
Yes. Take all of your medications at the usual times as prescribed. If you are having multiple tests on the same day, please review the instructions for each test.
What should I wear on the day of the test?
You may wear comfortable clothing. If your test is on your legs, please bring or wear a pair of loose fitting shorts. If your test is on your arm, please bring or wear a sleeveless shirt if possible.
What happens during the test?
a. A sonographer will bring you to the exam room and explain the procedure.
b. If you are having the test on your legs, you will be asked to put on your loose fitting shorts. If the test is on your arms, you will be asked to remove any clothing on your arms.
c. Ultrasound gel will be placed on your skin and the sonographer will move a hand-held wand over your skin to obtain pictures. There will be times when the sonographer puts pressure and gently squeezes your leg or arms.
d. There may be times when you will be repositioned in order to obtain better images.
How long does the test take?
If you are only having one arm or leg examined the test should take approximately 45 minutes. If you are having both arms/legs examined, plan to be here approximately 1 ½ hours. These times may vary depending on the complexity of the exam.
How do I get my results?
After your cardiologist has reviewed your test, the results will be entered into your electronic medical record. Please allow 7-10 business days for routine results to be processed.
A copy of your test will be sent to your primary care doctor listed on your record. You can obtain access to your results through mychart. If you do not have a mychart account you can create one by visiting www.carycard.wakemed.org.