Venous Studies.

 

Venous Duplex Studies.

What is it?

A Venous Doppler Study is a test which measures the blood supply flowing through your arteries and veins. These are performed as preliminary studies to evaluate vascular function and are often ordered post-procedure to assess the condition of the veins. This test may reveal obstructions or clots that could be slowing down or blocking blood flow to the heart.

Why we do it?

The Venous Doppler test may be ordered if a patient exhibits
any of the following symptoms:

  • Swelling

  • Pain

  • Tenderness

  • Blood clots in the leg

  • Pulmonary Embolism (PE)

  • Hard, thickened veins

  • Dark pigmentation around ankles

  • Leg ulcers

  • Abnormal veins

  • Monitor post-venous interventional procedure (stenting, graft, endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation, sclerotherapy)

How should you prepare?

No special preparations are needed, but you should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.

How long does the test last?

The test lasts for approximately 30 minutes per limb.

Venous Reflux Studies.

What is it?

A Venous Reflux Study checks for reverse blood flow in veins in the legs.

Why we do it?

When veins in your leg are healthy, the valves enable blood to move directly towards your heart When blood is flowing towards your heart, these valves open. To prevent blood from flowing backwards, these valves close. However, when your veins become weak and enlarged, otherwise known as varicose veins, these valves are unable to close properly and blood falls backward. This often results in Chronic Venous Insufficiency, also called Venous Reflux — when blood begins to pool in the legs and leads to increased pressure.

When is it ordered?

The venous Doppler test may be ordered if a patient exhibits any of the following symptoms:

  • Enlarged veins

  • Swelling in your legs

  • Fatigue

  • Hyperpigmentation

  • Leg ulcers

  • Scaly legs

  • Rough, hardened skin on legs

How should you prepare?

No special preparations are needed, but you should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.

How long does the test last?

The test takes approximately 30 minutes.