Carotid, Aorta, Arterial, Venous Doppler

Procedure Locations

What is Carotid, Aorta, Arterial, Venous Doppler?

What are Carotid, Aorta, Arterial and Venous Doppler Exams?

Carotid, Aorta, Arterial and Venous Doppler exams are all simple, noninvasive tests that use high-frequency sound waves (Ultrasound) and computer-generated graphs to measure the amount and direction of blood flow through your arteries and veins real-time, in a way that simply cannot be obtained using other imaging techniques.

Why would my physician recommend a Carotid, Aorta, Arterial or Venous Doppler exam?

Your physician may recommend any of these Doppler exams in order to evaluate the way blood flows through your arteries, veins and/or organs to determine the cause of unexplained pains or symptoms, to follow up on a previously diagnosed condition, to determine if you are at risk for a specific condition, including stroke, blood clot, or during pregnancy to evaluate the health of an unborn baby.

A Carotid Doppler is used to evaluate the carotid arteries located in the neck in order to determine if there are any blockages or signs of vascular disease.

An Aorta Doppler is used to evaluate how blood flows through the main artery of the body, which is located in the abdomen and supplies oxygenated blood to the circulatory system.

An Arterial Doppler is used to evaluate blood flow through the arteries located in your arms or legs and discover any blockages that may be caused by plaque in the arteries. If a blockage is discovered during the Doppler exam, our Interventional Radiologists can be consulted regarding possible placement of a stent inside the artery to keep it open and to restore blood flow. Click here to learn more about our Vascular Procedures.

A Venous Doppler is used to evaluate the blood flow through the veins in the abdomen, legs, neck or brain (in infants and children) and determine if there are any blood clots.

What should I expect during a Carotid, Aorta, Arterial or Venous Doppler exam?

If this is your first Ultrasound, you may not be sure what to expect. Not to worry, we are here to guide you every step of the way. During any of these Ultrasound exams, warm gel is placed over the area to be tested and a probe is gently passed back and forth on your skin over the area to create and pick up sound waves, which are converted into a graph that helps show the flow of blood through the veins or arteries.

What should I expect after a Carotid, Aorta, Arterial or Venous Doppler exam?

When the imaging is complete, the clear gel will be wiped off of your skin. If any is left on the skin, it will dry like a powder and will not stain or discolor your clothing. Once the exam is complete, you may resume your normal activity level.

How do I schedule a Carotid, Aorta, Arterials or Venous Doppler exam with Fairfax Radiology?

Contact our Scheduling Department for an appointment:

Phone: 703.698.4488 Monday through Friday 8am to 6pm

Fax: 703.698.0864

Or click here to make an appointment request

Please have your written physician order and your insurance card in hand when making your appointment.

When are appointments offered for a Carotid, Aorta, Arterial or Vascular Doppler Exam?

For your convenience, most types of appointments are available mornings and afternoons during the week. Learn more about each location.