Blood Flow Studies
Alternate Names : Duplex Vascular Studies, Doppler Vascular Ultrasound
This test measures blood flow through an artery or vein.
Who is a candidate for the test?
The test is done to find out if certain blood vessel diseases are present. A doctor may order this test if any of the following conditions are suspected:
artery blockage, such as from cholesterol buildup
injury to blood vessels
poor blood flow or circulation
blood clot inside a blood vessel or artificial bypass graft
How is the test performed?
Clothing is removed from the area under study. Detectors are placed on the skin at specific points over the blood vessel being tested. The detectors use special sound waves that are bounced of the blood vessels and blood inside the vessels. The detectors send the information to a monitor, where it is processed and recorded. This test causes no pain and does not expose people to harmful radiation.
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