Dopplerography

Duplex scanning or Dopplerography (DUPLEX) is a vascular examination of the head and neck, during which three-dimensional color-coded images of blood vessels are obtained and the direction and speed of blood flow are recorded. The results of the examination provide the neurologist with medically valuable information about the general condition of the blood vessels and allow to determine changes in the blood vessels, as well as help to evaluate the results of the patient’s treatment.

This diagnostic method is:

• Informative, harmless and painless;
• The procedure does not require special preparation;
• It does not take much time (on average 20 minutes);
• The result of the examination is received immediately after the examination.

Dopplerography is often used as the first, less complicated ultrasound diagnostic method in the detection of various vascular diseases. This method allows the doctor to accurately determine blood circulation disorders and their degree, as well as allows to judge changes in the blood vessels caused by the disease and their functional state.

What results do Doppler examinations provide?

• Anatomical images of the examined vessels are shown;
• The direction and speed of blood flow are recorded;
• Changes in vascular flow are detected – for example, venous reflux disorders;
• Information is provided about the thickness of the vascular walls;
• Acquired anomalies of the vascular system are detected: narrowing of blood vessels, thickening of arterial blockages, deposits or plaques;
• Congenital vascular development features are detected – reduced diameter, curvature or additional vascular branching.

Changes in the blood vessels of the head and neck, both congenital and acquired, can be a risk factor for the development of stroke and other cardiovascular diseases during life. In order to fully assess the blood circulation of the brain, an examination of both the neck and the head vessels is necessary. Often, significant changes are found precisely in the blood vessels of the neck, which branch further and supply blood to the brain, therefore duplex scanning of the blood vessels of the head and neck is a particularly important method for the prevention of these diseases.

In what cases is Dopplerography recommended?

Dopplerography of the head and neck vessels is recommended if you have:

• prolonged headaches;
• dizziness;
• high blood pressure or other cardiovascular diseases;
• cervical spondylosis;
• high cholesterol, triglyceride levels in blood tests;
• tinnitus;
• atherosclerosis;
• diabetes;
• after head injuries;
• after strokes;
• to evaluate the results of cardiovascular disease treatment;
• a ​​long-term smoker;
• if you are overweight;
• a sedentary lifestyle;
• a family history of strokes and heart attacks.

How often should you have the examination?

If you have been diagnosed with atherosclerosis or are at risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, have diabetes or have difficultly controlled blood pressure, then such an examination is necessary once every six months or at least once a year.

How is the examination performed?

A transparent gel is applied to the patient’s skin to improve contact between the ultrasound device and the skin. The ultrasound probe, which generates ultrasound waves, is moved over the part of the body being examined, displaying the image on the screen.

The examination is painless and harmless, as it is not associated with ionizing radiation. It can be performed an unlimited number of times and at any age.

At the Alpino Pērle medical practice, color Dopplerography of the blood vessels of the head and neck is performed by Dr. Vadims Ivanovskis, who is a certified radiologist and ultrasound specialist. The doctor will examine you and provide recommendations to your family doctor or treating specialist.