Preparation for the examination
No special preparation is necessary for the performance of a Doppler sonographic examination. The ultrasound waves used do not influence the body functions in any way, so no special measures need to be taken in advance. It is sufficient that the patient positions himself on the examination couch according to the instructions of the examining doctor. It may be necessary to remove clothing in advance, since the examination can only be performed directly by placing the transducer on the skin.
How does the examination proceed?
The procedure of a Doppler sonography does not differ significantly from that of a normal ultrasound examination. As a rule, the examination is performed lying down. Depending on the area being examined, clothing may have to be removed.
The examiner applies a gel to the area of the body to be scanned. The transducer is then pressed lightly onto the area to be examined. The doctor usually has to move the transducer slightly to bring the blood vessel into focus.
On the basis of the images or sounds generated by the ultrasound device, the examiner can assess the blood flow. As a rule, part of the examination is also recorded and printed out as an image or curve. At the end of the examination, the patient is given tissues to remove the gel. The patient is not affected in any way afterwards.
How is the Doppler evaluated?
Doppler sonography is evaluated during the examination. With this method, a real-time display takes place and the examiner sees directly, for example, the current flow rate of the examined vessel and can assess whether it is normal or abnormally reduced. In addition, the equipment used enables direct documentation of the findings, for example in the form of images that are printed or digitally stored, or flow curves that allow the blood flow in the vessels examined to be recorded.
If necessary, the examination is followed by a further evaluation by the physician and an assessment of whether a change requiring therapy is present or when a further control examination is recommended. In most cases, a report on the results of the examination is also prepared. The examiner can provide information on this.
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