Why is USG Doppler Both Lower Limb Artery & Venous Important?
1. Detection of Peripheral Arterial Disease (PAD): PAD occurs when the arteries in the legs become narrowed or blocked, leading to poor circulation. Symptoms can include pain, cramping, numbness, or cold feet. A Doppler ultrasound helps assess the blood flow in the arteries and detects areas of blockage or narrowing that could lead to PAD.
2. Identification of Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): DVT refers to the formation of blood clots in the deep veins of the legs, which can lead to life-threatening complications such as a pulmonary embolism. The Doppler study can detect abnormal blood flow in the veins, helping diagnose DVT early and preventing complications.
3. Assessment of Venous Insufficiency: This condition occurs when the veins in the legs fail to efficiently return blood to the heart, often leading to symptoms such as swelling, pain, or varicose veins. Doppler ultrasound helps assess the competence of venous valves and determine if there is reflux (backward flow of blood), which is a key indicator of venous insufficiency.
4. Pre-surgical Evaluation: For patients undergoing vascular surgery (such as bypass surgery or varicose vein treatment), the Doppler ultrasound is used to evaluate the condition of the blood vessels in both the arteries and veins of the lower limbs. It helps in planning surgery and ensuring that the blood vessels are suitable for the procedure.
5. Monitoring Post-treatment Conditions: For patients who have undergone treatments like endovenous laser therapy (EVLT), sclerotherapy, or angioplasty, this ultrasound can help monitor the condition of the arteries and veins over time to ensure that there are no complications such as restenosis or clot formation.