A
duplex
ultrasound
scan
is a
noninvasive
examination
that
uses
color
Doppler
technology.
Harmless
high
frequency
sound
waves
bounce
off
of
the
body's
internal
structures
and
are
processed
electronically
to
yield
information
about
blood
flow
and
the
condition
of
the
arteries
and
veins.
A
duplex
ultrasound
is
painless,
there
is
no
radiation
involved,
and
there
are
no
risks
known
to
be
associated
with
its
use.
This
test
is
typically
used
to
diagnose
suspected
artery
disease
and
other
vascular
problems.
How do I prepare?
Please plan to arrive at your designated Imaging Services site 15 minutes
prior to your scheduled appointment. There is no specific preparation for a
duplex ultrasound scan of blood vessels in the arms, legs, and neck. It is best
to wear loose-fitting clothing. If you are having a study of the blood vessels
in your arms, we recommend wearing a tank top that exposes your shoulders, neck,
and arms.
An ultrasound of the abdominal arteries and veins requires that you have
nothing to eat or drink after your evening meal the night before your
ultrasound. You may take your regular medicine with a small amount of water. Be
sure to bring a list of your current medications with you when you come to the
medical center for your test.
What can I expect during the procedure?
You may be asked to change into a gown, depending on the specific exam. You
will be asked to lie on an examining table for 30 to 60 minutes. The vascular
technician will apply some cool, clear gel to your skin. During the exam, an
ultrasound transducer (which looks like a wand) will be moved lightly up and
down your skin where the gel has been applied. Images created from the sound
waves will appear on a video monitor. The sounds and images of blood moving
through the vessels are saved in the computer for analysis by a vascular
specialist.
How and when will I get my test results?
Typically, within 48 hours a written report of your test results will be sent
to your referring physician, who will review them with you. Additional time (3
to 5 days) may be required if we are comparing these test results to previous
findings from another hospital.
Where is the test performed?
Duplex Ultrasound Scanning is performed at: Cayuga Medical Center, 101 Dates
Drive off NYS Route 96 in Ithaca, and the Convenient Care Campus on Warren Road
at Arrowwood Drive in Ithaca.
