Lower Extremity Venous Duplex
What is a Lower Extremity Venous Duplex?
A Lower Extremity Venous Duplex is an ultrasound image of the veins in the legs. The lower extremity venous study is designed to assess the deep and superficial leg veins for blood clots – DVT (deep vein thrombosis) and venous insufficiency. We also use venous extremity studies to measure size and structure of the superficial veins for possible use as bypass grafts.
Why is a Lower Extremity Venous Duplex done?
A Lower Extremity Venous Ultrasound gives doctors information about the veins in the
legs, such as:
- The blood flow through the veins
- The presence of blood clots within the veins.
What can I expect during the Lower Extremity Venous Duplex?
A clear gel will be placed on your legs and the technologist will scan your legs with a transducer (a microphone-like device) that will show a moving picture of the veins and listen to the blood flow within. Some slight pushing on the legs is required to evaluate for blood clots within the vein.
When will I know the results of my test?
Your cardiologist will review the findings of the Lower Extremity Venous Ultrasound with you at your next office visit. Make sure you have a follow-up appointment scheduled as the results of this test cannot be given over the telephone.