Ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm

What is an ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm?

An ultrasound scan of your arteries may also be called an Arterial Duplex or Arterial Dopplers of your arms. This test uses ultrasound to produce images of the arteries in your arms. The arteries carry blood away from the heart to supply the extremities.

This test uses ultrasound to produce images of the main arteries in the arms. It is a safe and effective way to assess the blood flow, and can determine whether there are any narrowings or blockages in the arteries. This will allow the consultant to appropriately plan your treatment.

The test is painless and does not use any radiation or needles. There are no risks associated it.

Where do I go?

The Vascular Studies Unit (VSU) is on Level 5 of the Addenbrooke’s Treatment Centre (ATC).

What is consent?

Before your test is performed you must give your consent or permission. Consent is the process by which you give permission to health professionals to provide your care and treatment. It may be implied (offering your arm for a blood pressure reading) or formal (signing a formal consent form for an operation). In either case your consent must be given voluntarily and you must have all the information you need to make a decision. If you feel you do not have enough information or do not understand the procedure please ask.

How is an ultrasound scan of the arteries in your arm performed?

There is no preparation required and you may eat and drink as usual prior to the test.

A clinical vascular scientist will perform and interpret your ultrasound scan. The scan will be performed from the wrist, to the neck, so you may be asked to remove your top so the scientist can scan the area of interest. The lights will be dimmed to allow the best images to be obtained.

The scan will be performed with you lying down or seated on the edge of the couch. Gel is applied to your arm and the ultrasound probe will be moved along the arm to view all of the arteries. The scan takes approximately 30 - 60 minutes. During the test, you may hear some “swooshing” noises from the ultrasound machine. These sounds are normal.

What happens next?

The clinical vascular scientist can comment briefly on the findings and will write a report for the consultant who requested the test. You will be able to discuss the results of this investigation fully with the referring team at your next outpatient appointment.

In rare cases, the clinical vascular scientist may need to discuss the result with a doctor before you leave.

Other important information

Please inform reception of your arrival as soon as you enter the department. There are often other clinics in progress so you may not be called in order of arrival.

You may bring a relative or friend in with you during the test or request a chaperone if you would like one.

Privacy and dignity

Same sex bays and bathrooms are offered in all wards except critical care and theatre recovery areas where the use of high-tech equipment and/or specialist one to one care is required.