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Vascular Doppler · Minimal preparation

Arterial Doppler Ultrasound & ABI

Evaluate circulation in the arteries of the legs or arms to diagnose peripheral artery disease (PAD) and blockages.
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Overview

Checking the Circulation in Your Limbs

An arterial Doppler ultrasound images the arteries and measures blood flow to detect narrowing or blockages caused by peripheral artery disease (PAD). It is often paired with an ankle-brachial index (ABI), which compares blood pressures in your ankles and arms.

Why Your Doctor May Order It

  • Leg pain or cramping when walking (claudication)
  • Cold, pale or numb feet or hands
  • Wounds or sores that heal slowly
  • Weak or absent pulses
  • Diabetes or smoking history with circulation symptoms
  • Follow-up after a bypass or stent

Preparation required

How to Prepare

Nicotine & caffeine
Avoid smoking, vaping and caffeine for 2 hours before your exam — they constrict blood vessels and can affect results.
Food & drink
No fasting required.
Medications
Take all medications as usual.
Clothing
Wear loose clothing; blood pressure cuffs may be placed on your arms and ankles.
Duration
About 45–60 minutes.
Always follow any instructions from your ordering physician. Questions? Call 786-353-9160.
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What to expect

Your Exam, Step by Step

01

Check in

Arrive 10 minutes early with your photo ID, insurance card and your physician’s order.
02

Your Scan

Blood pressure cuffs may be placed on your arms and ankles to calculate the ABI, then the sonographer scans the arteries and records flow patterns along the limb.
03

Results

A board-certified radiologist interprets your study, and the report is sent to your physician within 48 business hours.
Good to know

Services We Don’t Offer

Transvaginal UltrasoundObstetric (Pregnancy) UltrasoundPediatric Imaging
Every other ultrasound exam is available. See all exams →

FAQ

Common Questions

A venous Doppler looks for clots and valve problems in the veins that return blood to the heart. An arterial Doppler looks for narrowing or blockages in the arteries that carry blood to your limbs.
Both nicotine and caffeine narrow blood vessels temporarily, which can change the blood-flow measurements.

Related Exams

Venous Doppler

DVT, leg swelling and venous insufficiency.
Learn more →

Carotid Doppler

Blood flow to the brain and stroke-risk assessment.
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Abdominal Aorta Ultrasound

Aneurysm (AAA) screening and follow-up.
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Board-certified radiologists. Patient-focused care.

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