Name of the Procedure:

Duplex Scan of Lower Extremity Arteries or Arterial Bypass Grafts; Complete Bilateral Study

Summary

A Duplex scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves (ultrasound) to visualize the arteries in the lower extremities or evaluate arterial bypass grafts. This bilateral study examines both legs to detect blockages or abnormalities.

Purpose

This procedure helps diagnose peripheral artery disease (PAD) and evaluates the patency and function of arterial bypass grafts. Its goals are to assess blood flow, identify blockages or narrowing, and plan appropriate treatments.

Indications

• Symptoms of PAD, such as leg pain while walking (claudication) or rest pain
• Non-healing wounds or ulcers on the lower extremities
• Previous arterial bypass graft surgery needing evaluation
• Suspected arterial blockages or abnormalities

Preparation

• No fasting required
• Comfortable clothing recommended; you may need to change into a gown
• Inform your doctor of any medications you're taking, especially blood thinners
• Recent blood tests or preliminary imaging may be reviewed

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies down on an examination table.
2. A water-based gel is applied to the skin over the leg arteries.
3. A handheld device called a transducer is moved over the skin. It emits sound waves and captures their echoes to create images of the arteries.
4. Doppler ultrasound measures the speed and direction of blood flow.

5. Both legs are examined for a complete bilateral study.

   No anesthesia or sedation is needed, and the procedure is painless.

Duration

Typically, the scan takes about 45 to 60 minutes.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital, outpatient clinic, or specialized vascular lab.

Personnel

• Vascular technologists or ultrasound technicians
• Radiologists or vascular surgeons often interpret the results

Risks and Complications

This is a low-risk, non-invasive procedure. Rare risks include:

• Mild discomfort from the pressure of the transducer
• Minor skin irritation from the gel

Benefits

• Accurate detection of arterial blockages or issues with bypass grafts.
• Helps in planning treatments like angioplasty, stenting, or surgery.
• Immediate results can guide prompt intervention.

Recovery

• No significant recovery time is needed.
• You can resume normal activities immediately after the procedure.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and treatment plans.

Alternatives

• CT Angiography (CTA): Provides detailed images but involves radiation and contrast dye.
• Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): Detailed imaging but not suitable for patients with certain implants.
• Angiogram: Invasive, involving catheter insertion and contrast dye.

Each alternative has its own pros and cons regarding imaging detail, invasiveness, and patient suitability.

Patient Experience

• Generally painless with mild, brief discomfort from the transducer's pressure.
• You may hear the sound of blood flow during the Doppler part of the test.
• Post-procedure, you should feel normal and can drive yourself home.