An ultrasound test of blood flow in the legs, also called venous (Doppler) ultrasound, may be performed to check for possible blood clots or to rule out blood clots as the cause of sudden symptoms like pain or swelling in the leg. I was experiencing cramp-like pain in the center of my calf for several weeks, so my doctor arranged for me to have a venous ultrasound.
Preparing for Test
There is nothing that you need to do prior to the test; there are no dietary restrictions and there are no risks associated with the test. You will be taken to a room with a hospital-style bed and the ultrasound equipment, which is a computer with unique controls, pluse monitors and speakers. Connected to the computer via a cord is a transducer about the size and shape of an electric shaver that can transmit images and sound.
You will be asked to take off clothes below the waist, but leave on underwear. Your doctor’s request provided to the radiologist or ultrasound technologist will indicate how the test is performed and how you will lie on the bed. Most likely, you will be asked to lie on your back.
How the Ultrasound is Performed on the Leg
The bed will be raised to a comfortable examining level for the technician and the foot of the bed will be tipped a few degrees downward. The objective of the test is to check the blood flow back to the heart. You may be asked to slightly bend your knee while keeping the side of your leg on the bed.
The transducer is pressed against the skin and an image and sound are sent to the computer. Very firm pressure may be applied with the transducer followed by hand pressure from the technician to a location on the leg closer to the foot to momentarily (like one second) block the flow of blood. The sound from the vein when the technician releases his hand-you can hear the whoosh as the blood continues its journey to the heart-and image are recorded.
If the need for your ultrasound was for obvious swelling in the calf, the exam may start there or at the back of the knee. If a blood clot is found, the test may continue to upper thigh/groin area.
The venous test can take 30 to 60 minutes depending on whether or not a clot was found and if one or both legs are being checked. During the test, ask questions or to see the monitor if you like.
Pain or No Pain?
Between my internet research at reliable medical websites, listening to my doctor, and talking with a friend who had undergone venous testing, I was assured that there would be no pain or minimal pain associated with the test. I, however, felt sharp pain when the technician applied pressure to the transducer, perhaps because my test was done in the groin area. The pain lasted only for the few seconds that pressure was applied was the transponder.
After the Test
It is okay to resume normal activities after the test UNLESS a blood clot is found. If a blood clot is found, transportation will be arranged to take you to the nearest hospital. Blood clots are serious; portions may break off and make their way to the lungs or brain with life-threatening results.
The results of the test will be provided to your family physician. My doctor said my venous test results showed no blood clots and good blood flow. Unfortunately, the pain continues and has become more widespread and symptoms now include involuntary muscle twitches and tingling. My doctor is speculating (much like Dr. House) on the cause and an Electromyogram (EMG) has now been scheduled.
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References: Washington University School of Medicine, Cooper University Hospital
