An upper extremity Venous Duplex Ultrasound is used to evaluate the deep and superficial veins of the upper extremities for intraluminal thrombosis. It uses sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. The ultrasound looks at the flow of blood through the veins in the arms.
Indications:
- Arm pain, swelling and/or discoloration
- History of venous thromboembotic disease (blood clots in the veins)
- Suspicion of pulmonary embolism (blood clots in the lungs)
- Unexplained fever
- Bulging veins
- Poor vein function
Risk factors:
- Surgery
- Family history
- Prolonged immobility: bed rest/long trips
- Age
What is involved?
You will be asked to lie on an exam table. Gel will be placed on the skin of your arm over the veins being tested. The technologist will apply a warm gel and a transducer (a small wand) will be used to examine your arteries. As the transducer moves back and forth, it sends the information to the computer that produces the images the technician can view and record on a screen. The test will take approximately 15 to 30 minutes.
