Colour Doppler is a special type of ultrasound that uses sound waves to visualize blood flow through arteries and veins. Unlike standard ultrasound, which only shows the structure of tissues and organs, Colour Doppler adds color to the image to show the speed and direction of blood flow. This makes it easier for doctors to assess circulation and detect any abnormalities in real time.
There are several types of Colour Doppler exams, depending on the body part being evaluated:
Arterial Doppler – Checks blood flow in arteries (commonly in the legs, arms, or neck)
Venous Doppler – Assesses blood flow in veins, often used to detect deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Carotid Doppler – Examines the carotid arteries in the neck for blockages or narrowing
Renal Doppler – Evaluates blood flow in the kidneys
Obstetric Doppler – Monitors blood flow in the umbilical cord, placenta, and fetus during pregnancy
Colour Doppler is commonly used to:
Detect blood clots or deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
Identify blocked or narrowed arteries
Monitor blood flow to organs and tissues
Evaluate varicose veins
Assess circulation in the fetus and placenta during pregnancy
Check for arterial narrowing after surgery or stenting
Examine blood flow in transplanted organs
In most cases, no special preparation is needed. For certain exams like abdominal or renal Doppler, you may be asked to fast for 6–8 hours before the test. Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes and avoid wearing jewelry over the area being examined. Our team will provide specific instructions when you book your appointment.
During the exam:
You will lie comfortably on an exam table.
A warm gel will be applied to your skin over the area being examined.
The sonographer will gently move a handheld device (transducer) over the area.
You may hear a “whooshing” sound as the device detects blood flow.
The test typically lasts 20–45 minutes, depending on the area being scanned.
The procedure is completely painless, non-invasive, and does not use any radiation.
Doctors may recommend a Colour Doppler if you have:
Swelling, pain, or tenderness in your legs
Suspected blood clots or varicose veins
Stroke symptoms or carotid artery disease
Poor circulation or leg ulcers
Pregnancy complications
Abnormal kidney function
Follow-up after vascular surgery or stenting
Colour Doppler is used because it provides crucial information about blood flow and vascular health that cannot be seen on regular ultrasound. It helps doctors detect blockages, measure blood flow, assess the severity of vascular diseases, and plan appropriate treatment. In pregnancy, it plays a vital role in monitoring the health of the baby and placenta. book an appointment at Nobel Imaging and Diagnostic for a medical test
In some cases, a contrast dye may be injected to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels. If needed, our staff will discuss this with you beforehand. Contact Us
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