Duplex scanning of the vessels of the head that shows. Why is duplex scanning of the head and neck prescribed?

The brain is the most important organ in the human body. Vascular catastrophes often lead not only to the local death of the neurons of its substance, but also to the death of the whole organism.

Impaired cerebral blood supply can present with a variety of clinical symptoms from headaches to fainting and hearing loss.

Diagnosis of the causes of such conditions, as well as the characterization of arterial and venous blood flow, is currently carried out using such modern research as duplex scanning of the vessels of the head and neck.

The basis of the method

Prior to the advent of this technique, it was practically impossible to assess the state of the blood circulation in the brain, especially in its hard-to-reach places.

The registration of ultrasound was subsequently processed by special receiving equipment using the Doppler effect, after which an indirect assessment of the state of the examined part of the brain and its blood flow was carried out.

With the advent of duplex scanning, all brain structures began to be visualized more accurately.

Such a study is based on the study and analysis of a two-dimensional picture of the studied vessel, its internal and external structures with intraluminal blood flow.

Research features

With regard to the vessels of the head and neck, this is the main intravital ultrasound method for diagnosing the state of the cerebral bed, and it is called transcranial duplex scanning of the vessels of the head. Both the vessels themselves and adjacent tissues, as well as the flow of blood through these formations, can be examined.

What can be seen with TKDS?

The specialist evaluates the anatomical structure, elasticity and wall thickness of the blood tube under study, its inner lining, as well as the lumen with outer and inner diameters and its patency.

The blood flow in the studied vessel is judged by the results obtained using color Doppler.

The nature of the flow, the presence or absence of the flow, its speed values also indirectly allow us to judge the presence or absence of intravascular pathology and its severity.

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Indications for extracranial ultrasound of the cerebral vessels

Reasons why a doctor may prescribe extracranial ultrasound:

Indications for transcranial ultrasound

Transcranial duplex scanning of cerebral vessels is prescribed for:

Such an ultrasound examination also makes it possible to identify abnormal vascular deformities and spasms, as well as additional compensatory possibilities of the circulatory bed and mechanisms for regulating the tone of cerebral vessels.

In addition, the identified abnormalities can help establish a diagnosis if the patient has cerebral symptoms.

Technique

Ultrasound of the extracranial sections of the brachiocephalic arteries is mandatory throughout all sections of the common and external carotid, as well as vertebral arteries and the brachiocephalic trunk.

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The bones of the skull are the main obstacle to the examination of intracranial structures by ultrasound. Therefore, duplex scanning of cerebral vessels is somewhat different from ultrasound of other localizations. The main difference lies in the use of low-frequency radiation, which makes it impossible to examine and diagnose intracranial vessels.

The specialist judges the nature of changes in the lumen and the state of the wall by analyzing the color changes of the CDS, called cartograms. The multicolored spectra of blood flow in intracranial vessels only indirectly reflect the above described characteristics of the state of the circulatory bed. In other words, if there is no violation of hemodynamic parameters, then the pathological process cannot be detected using TKDS.

When conducting ultrasound of the vessels of the brain, the concept of "ultrasonic window" is also used, which directly affects the result of intracranial examinations.

Such a window is due to the different thickness of the cranium with the maximum bandwidth of ultrasound radiation in places of its smallest thickness or in the region of its natural openings. Reduced bone transparency significantly impairs the possibility of color Doppler scanning (CDS).

Transcranial research necessarily requires the study of cartograms of the main cerebral, vertebral, carotid arteries, the circle of Willis and the main intracranial veins.

Such application in practice of CDS is widely used in the diagnosis of sudden brain accidents for:

Extracranial sections of the brachiocephalic arteries make it possible to diagnose typical signs characteristic of a particular disease. By means of CDS it is possible to determine atherosclerotic changes, blood clots, embolisms, vasculopathy.

Features of TKDS for various disorders

Transcranial duplex scanning of cerebral vessels determines echogenicity, geometric outlines, the extent of the pathological process, as well as the degree of vascular patency or narrowing of the lumen with rapid changes in blood flow.

An interesting fact is that the degree of stenosis does not directly affect the development of cerebrovascular accident. The main cause of discirculatory catastrophes is often stenosis caused by an atherosclerotic plaque with hemodynamically insignificant (up to 50%) narrowing of the vessel lumen.

Frequent diagnostic difficulties include the determination of intracranial arteries in CDS with signs of a non-occlusive thrombus, when angiography will be the main method for making the correct diagnosis.

With the help of ultrasound of the vessels of the brain, it is also possible to monitor the functioning of the anastomoses, for example, with stenotic lesions of the brachiocephalic trunks.

The implementation of thrombolysis and its effectiveness also make it possible to track duplex scanning of intracranial arteries, when with the help of CDS, a change in the velocity values of blood flow is observed both in the affected vessel itself and in the collaterals. This is important, as there is often an imaginary clinical improvement due to the ineffectiveness of thrombolysis.

Methodology for the procedure of ultrasound of the vessels of the head and neck

The study is painless and safe, as a result of which it can be repeated many times in dynamics without harm to health, including in pregnant women and children.

The high resolution of duplex scanning allows the detection of small vascular abnormalities, which is used for prevention purposes for early screening.

This method of studying intracranial vessels has no contraindications. Preparation for the study is not provided. It is advisable not to smoke on the day of the procedure itself, to give up energy drinks, strongly brewed tea and coffee to exclude their possible impact on vascular tone.

Recommendations for the abolition of pharmaceutical drugs (Betaserk, Cinnarizine) can only be given by the attending physician who prescribed the therapy and examination. Immediately before scanning, it is necessary to remove jewelry from the head and neck, if any.

The main position of the patient for better visualization is lying on his back, in some cases the study is performed standing, sitting or half-sitting. The ultrasonic sensor is installed in the neck area. Previously, the skin is lubricated with a special gel to improve the conduction of ultrasound waves.

The total duration of the CDS procedure takes up to 45 minutes. After the ultrasound, it is recommended to wash your hair. The study itself consists of two successive stages - two-dimensional and duplex scanning.

The two-dimensional mode allows you to evaluate the structure and features of the vessels and surrounding tissues, and the Doppler effect allows you to evaluate the features of the main blood flow through the scanned areas of the study, indirectly confirming and allowing you to more accurately determine the conclusion.

In addition to duplex scanning, there is also a triplex mode, when the vessel is assessed in three projections. However, it is believed that the resolution of the latter is much lower, which makes the procedure of the two-dimensional mode in combination with Doppler a more qualitative and informative method of choice for studying the vascular bed.

Advantages and disadvantages of ultrasound of intracranial vessels:

The disadvantage of the method can be considered the subjectivity of the evaluation of results, depending on the experience and skills of the researcher. Because of what, in controversial cases or if it is necessary to objectify the parameters, for example, before surgery, they resort to angiography.

What else can be revealed?

In addition to direct damage to the vascular bed, indirect effects on the microcirculation of the brain of lesions of the distal parts of the brachiocephalic arteries and the aortic arch can be detected. This will be manifested by the clinic of chronic ischemia with the corresponding symptoms of stenosis of these vessels.

Pathological changes in the substance of the brain that do not affect cerebral blood flow are also detected.

The average cost of ultrasound (duplex) of the vessels of the head and neck

In Moscow and St. Petersburg, this one-time procedure can cost an average of 2,000 to 4,000 rubles.

Preclinical detection of the early stages of the disease is the main advantage of ultrasound duplex scanning of cerebral vessels, which makes this study the main choice among the variety of other diagnostic methods for examining the head and neck.

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Thanks to the discovery of the possibilities of a supersonic wave, reflecting, creating an image, humanity has received a unique opportunity to diagnose many serious ailments. At the same time, the integrity of the skin is not violated, there is no pain and discomfort. Duplex scanning of the vessels of the neck and head is one of such methods.

It becomes possible to scan any vessel, tissue, draw conclusions about blood flow. By what he sees on the screen, the doctor can judge how the vessel is passable or narrowed.

There are no restrictions on the conduct of ultrasound of the vessels, it does no harm, there are no painful and unpleasant sensations. The result is issued immediately.

To understand how important this examination is, we will give basic information about the blood supply to the head and neck.

BCS is a special term for the veins and arteries that carry blood to the brain. These include the brachiocephalic arteries. This is the main vascular bed that supplies the brain with blood, which is isolated in the extracranial group.

There is also a group of intracranial vessels that are responsible for cerebral blood supply.

If the work of any area is disturbed, another vascular department takes over its functions, sometimes only partially. Brain cells are very vulnerable, and with a lack of blood supply that carries oxygen and nutrition, they die very quickly. This is often the cause of a stroke. It is this area that is attacked by atherosclerosis.

That is why it is necessary to scan the vessels of the head and neck.

How do you get the information you need

There are several types of duplex scanning of the vessels of the neck and head.

UZDG (dopplerography) - to determine the patency of arteries and veins. The negative point is that the desired site is not directly accessible. Conclusions are drawn from a schematic representation.
Duplex scanning of the vessels of the head and neck. You can see vessels, tissues. This technique allows you to study the structure and features of the vessel, to identify thrombosis, negative changes in the structure of the walls. It makes it possible to diagnose ailments that have not yet manifested themselves clinically.
Triplex scanning complements duplex examination. They do not differ much, but with CDS the object can be viewed in three projections. The results are visible on the monitor in color. Depending on the speed at which the blood moves, staining occurs in the appropriate colors.

To study vascular changes, transcranial Doppler sonography is used. But at the same time, there is no opportunity to fully study the bloodstream.

For clarification, duplex scanning of cerebral vessels using all modes is necessary.

Doppler scanning has its pros and cons.

informative;
Low cost;
Painless, no harm to health;
There are no contraindications, it is possible to conduct it for children and older people.

The disadvantages of DSSH include difficulties in the study of small branches of the bloodstream; cholesterol plaques on the walls prevent the passage of ultrasound. The professionalism of the specialist also plays an important role.

Despite the shortcomings, this is the best way to obtain information about the state of a particular section of the vascular bed.

When Doppler Scanning Is Necessary

If the patient complains of visual impairment, sudden changes in blood pressure, tinnitus, headaches, DS should be performed. The following pathologies are revealed:

Changes as a result of atherosclerosis;
Destruction or protrusion of the walls due to thinning or stretching;
The development of inflammatory processes;
Negative changes in cerebral blood supply;
congenital anomalies;
thrombus formation.

Ultrasound duplex scanning allows you to understand how affected, intact, elastic the circulatory system is; demonstrates the presence of blood clots in it, congenital features. It finds out the causes of repeated strokes, transient ischemic attacks.

Who needs a vascular examination:

Men over 45, women over 50;
Those whose relatives had diabetes, suffered a myocardial or cerebral infarction, suffered from high blood pressure;
For those who cannot part with a cigarette;
Overweight people;
With pain in the cervical vertebrae;
If the patient had an ischemic stroke or transient attack;
In preparation for surgical interventions on the spinal cord, brain, in cardiology (as well as to evaluate the result of surgical treatment);
Those who have vegetative-vascular dystonia.

What is needed for the DS

Dopplerography does not require any preparation. On the eve of the procedure, it is recommended to stop taking substances that stimulate vascular tone, which can distort the reality of the picture of the disease.

If the patient is prescribed any drugs with a similar effect, then the regimen for taking them should be discussed with the doctor. Distorts the result of nicotine, caffeine, psychostimulants, drinks containing ethyl alcohol. Jewelry can interfere with the procedure, so it is better to remove them.

Conducting research is the same everywhere. Since duplex scanning of the vessels of the brain and neck is absolutely painless, no pain medication is required. Depending on which area is examined, the patient can sit, lie down or stand.

If the patient must be in a supine position, he is laid on his back, with his head raised. For this purpose, something hard is placed under the head. Need to have access to the neck. The doctor will tell you which head position to take.

After applying a special substance to the skin and hair, a controller (device sensor) is applied.

First, the carotid artery is diagnosed to the place of its entry into the skull. Each one has an individual location. Therefore, it is important that the doctor can correctly position the sensor, otherwise, due to the anatomical features, an incorrect result will be obtained.

The study of intracranial blood lines is carried out where the bones of the skull have a minimum thickness. These include the temple and the overeye; the area where the connection of the spinal column with the skull; back of the head.

When performing a duplex of the vessels of the head and neck, special tests are performed (for example, you need to hold your breath for a while, or perform some kind of action). This is necessary in order to understand how disrupted the activity of the circulatory system. The procedure lasts approximately 30 minutes. After that, you need to wash your hair.

Deciphering the results

DS makes it possible to study the vascular bed, the speed of blood flow, to see formations in the lumen of the vessels.

When writing conclusions, numbers are practically not used.

If the arteries are examined, the device gives the result in the form of numbers that are compared with the normal values.

So, when examining the carotid artery, there should normally be no narrowing (0%), the wall thickness is 0.9-1.1.

The following conclusion should alert:

If ultrasound is reflected unevenly, arterial stenosis is less than 20%. This indicates atherosclerotic changes.
Change in the reflection of a sound wave, dysfunction, size of the layers of the vascular wall. Most likely, the diagnosis is “vasculitis”.
Plaques - everything is clear here. They cause harm and worsen the patient's condition.
Arterial stenosis by more than 50%. Urgent treatment required.

Informativeness of the methodology

The duplex of cerebral vessels plays an important role in clarifying the diagnosis.

So, with a transient ischemic attack, it is necessary to obtain data on the degree of narrowing of the arteries and blood flow disorders.

The Doppler method can determine the cause of the disease and draw conclusions about how severe its consequences will be.

With vasculitis, it is very important to understand whether the vessels of the central nervous system have been harmed. If the answer is yes, then the treatment regimen will be changed. The forecast will also change.

Atherosclerosis is dangerous by damage to individual blood areas, and it is important to decide how much they are affected.

This will determine which treatment to choose, whether it is possible to manage with conservative methods without resorting to surgery.

Many vascular diseases are insidious in that they do not manifest themselves clinically for a long time.

And you can learn about them only with the help of the DS technique. Having the necessary data for making a diagnosis, the doctor can prescribe the necessary treatment.

In different places, the cost of the procedure may vary, the patient can always go to the place where he will be served qualitatively and inexpensively.

Vascular - a diagnostic procedure that demonstrates a picture of the state of the vessels of the body, which is carried out with complete safety for the patient. During the diagnostics, the specialist receives a two-dimensional image of the vessels themselves, sees the state of their walls, the speed and nature of the blood flow. Also, a non-invasive study method allows you to find out the presence of blockages, places of narrowing or expansion of the lumen, thrombosis, atherosclerotic plaques, blood flow disorders, and much more.

Definition of concepts

Patients quite often confuse two concepts: ultrasound dopplerography (USDG) and ultrasound duplex vascular scanning (USDS). Both methods are used to study blood vessels, but there are differences, namely:

UZDG - determines the patency of the vessels of the head, neck, legs. At the same time, the view of the vessel, its location is not displayed on the screen, the specialist can put the sensor in the place of the intended placement of the vessel. That is, the study is carried out "blindly".
Ultrasound - allows you to see the projection of the vessel, explore its structure, functionality, determine the speed of blood flow, etc. The screen displays a black-and-gray image of the vessel and tissues, as in the study of ultrasound. Modern devices display the picture in color.

The essence of the method

Duplex scanning of blood vessels is a method developed for a detailed study of vascular structures, their condition, and the nature of blood flow in them. The study combines two methods:

Standard ultrasound mode - allows you to consider the location of blood vessels in the body, measure the diameter of each of them, thereby evaluating the lumen, identify blood clots, blockages, etc. Modern sensors are able to demonstrate a layered image of the vessel.
Doppler mode is one of the types of ultrasound that displays the flow of movement of blood particles inside the vessel, which makes it possible to assess the intensity of blood flow, the direction of its movement, to measure speed, resistance and other indicators.

Ultrasonic duplex scanning of blood vessels allows you to get almost all the parameters of the blood lines to assess their condition and clarify the diagnosis of the patient. The decisive advantage of the method is its absolute safety and the ability to carry out diagnostics after each stage of therapy.

Indications for research

When making a diagnosis, the doctor sends the patient to this study, having discovered a number of pathologies in him that clearly indicate changes in the vessels or problems with blood flow.

Dopplerography (duplex scanning of blood vessels) is necessary if you suspect the following diseases and conditions:

Coordination disorders, changes in visual clarity, tinnitus, blurred vision, headache.
cases of loss of consciousness.
Hypertension or intermittent increase in pressure above the standard indicators of a particular patient.
Different indicators of pressure on the right and left hands.
Diagnosed or suspected osteochondrosis of the cervical vertebrae.
Postoperative examination of the vessels of the neck and head.
Diagnosed vascular pathologies.
Preoperative study of blood vessels, aimed at studying their condition for correcting the plan of surgical intervention in a single system of the heart and blood vessels.
Brain pathologies diagnosed by other methods.
The presence of diseases leading to squeezing of blood vessels (an increase in the size of the thyroid gland, tumors).
Examination of blood vessels after a number of diseases (stroke, tumors of the brain and spinal cord, etc.) and injuries (craniocerebral, complex fractures).
Diseases of unknown etiology.
Control of vascular operations.

At-risk groups

Duplex vascular scanning is also prescribed for patients at risk of developing diseases. This category includes people with the prospect of developing vascular atherosclerosis, namely:

Smokers with a family history.
Patients with obesity, hypodynamia.
Experiencing constant stress.
Men and women over the age of 40.
Patients with diabetes mellitus of any stage.
Patients with elevated blood cholesterol levels.

Research types

Scanning of blood vessels by duplex method can act as an independent and the only study of the state of highways for making an accurate diagnosis. However, most often it is an addition or a basis for further clarifying measures using ultrasound methods.

Duplex scanning of blood vessels is used in the study of:

Thyroid gland. When studying this organ by ultrasound, nodal connections, autoimmune diseases, and neoplasms are detected. Also during the study, attention is paid to the vessels of the neck, to detect atherosclerotic plaques, the lumen of blood vessels, blood clots, etc.
Abdominal cavity. When diagnosing vessels, neoplasms are detected, the condition of the abdominal aorta is assessed, delamination of vascular tissues or aneurysms, atherosclerotic plaques, blood clots are detected, the lumen is assessed. Ultrasound allows you to study the state of the biliary tract, the movement of blood through the portal vein, etc.
Kidney. It is used in the search for renal arteries and to assess their condition, helps to assess the viability and functionality of the paired organ. Additional coverage of the examination demonstrates the patency of the ureters.
Hearts. Displays the state of the valves, places of narrowing of the lumen of the arteries, defects or defects of the interatrial, interventricular septum, etc.
Gynecology. The study shows the intensity of blood supply to various neoplasms in the uterus, ovaries - endometrial polyps, cysts, nodes, etc. Allows you to monitor the movement of fluid in the fallopian tubes. The research method is indicated during pregnancy to visualize the course of the umbilical cord, to examine the state of the heart and blood vessels of the child's brain.
Heads and necks. Duplex scanning of the vessels of the brain and neck demonstrates blood flow, vascular patency, lumen size, and many other indicators. This type of study is most often prescribed to clarify a wide range of diseases.
Urology. The study helps to assess the redistribution of the density of the walls of blood vessels in prostate adenoma, is used when taking a Valsalva test, is carried out in the diagnosis of tumors, etc.

More about kidneys

Duplex scanning of renal vessels is prescribed in such cases:

Post-traumatic, postoperative condition.
Renal failure.
Thrombosis of the vessels of the kidneys.
Neoplasms, nephroptosis.

A week before the date of diagnosis, the patient is strongly advised not to eat food that causes the formation of gases - cabbage, bread, carbonated drinks, legumes, mushrooms, sweets. During the seven-day preparation for ultrasound, it is necessary to take sorbents. Also, 6-7 hours before the start of the session, you can not eat any food. Duplex scanning of the kidneys is not subject to patients who have undergone a colonoscopy, fibrogastroscopy the day before. These types of diagnostics contribute to an increase in gas formation in the intestines.

For neck and head

Duplex scanning of the vessels of the head and neck is a scheduled event held once a year. This approach to health allows the patient to detect the appearance of pathology at an early stage, which, with correct diagnosis and treatment tactics, suppresses the disease, preventing it from developing into severe forms.

Using the duplex research method, a specialist evaluates blood hemodynamics, studies the individual characteristics of the structure and location of veins and arteries, determines the degree of vascular damage, the condition of the valves in the veins, which speeds up the process of making a diagnosis and clarifies the possibility of therapy.

Indications for diagnosis

What does a duplex scan show When it is carried out, you can identify:

Blockage of veins, including blood clots, atherosclerotic plaques.
The amount of narrowing or expansion of the arteries, the location of the pathology.
Angiopathy, vascular changes.

Duplex scanning of the vessels of the head and neck is prescribed in such cases:

After a stroke and traumatic brain injury.
With headaches, dizziness, memory loss (temporary, permanent).
With congenital vascular pathologies.
Diagnosed vascular dystonia.
Patients with a hereditary predisposition to a number of diseases (hypertension, diabetes).
With nicotine addiction. It is necessary to regularly examine the vessels due to the risk of stroke.

The following vascular systems are subjected to diagnostics:

Vertebrates.
Sleepy.
Subclavian.

Duplex scanning of cerebral vessels is always carried out together with the diagnosis of neck vessels and is divided into types:

Extracranial - a study of the main highways is being carried out.
Intracranial - examines the intracerebral vessels.
Transcranial - allows you to see a color duplex image of the brain.

Limb examination

Duplex scanning of the vessels of the lower extremities is prescribed for the following symptoms:

Deterioration of blood supply (numbness, cold fingers, chilliness, decreased sensitivity, etc.).
Arterial damage.
Pain when walking.
Signs and symptoms of arterial aneurysm.
Heredity (predisposition to thrombosis).
Pigmentation of skin areas.

What arteries are examined

In the lower body, duplex scanning is necessary for the following groups of arteries:

Femoral (deep, superficial).
Tibial (anterior, posterior).
Iliac (general, external).
fibula.
Popliteal.
Dorsal (foot).

The collected research results indicate the condition of the vessels and valves, blood flow, the presence of blood clots and other changes. The accuracy of the diagnosis allows the doctor to develop a treatment plan.

Where is the diagnosis made?

There are no contraindications to the study. Infants and infants also do not cause the slightest harm to duplex vascular scanning. Where to make a diagnosis? Almost any ultrasound room is equipped with the necessary equipment for a full range of activities. The referral to the procedure is issued by the attending physician.

In addition to the above groups of vessels, the study is carried out to study:

The course of pregnancy.
Vessels and ducts of the liver.
Vessels of the eyeball.
Prostate, etc.

There may be technical difficulties associated with the high degree of obesity in the patient. In this case, it will be difficult to see the vessels of the liver and kidneys. It will also cause difficulty scanning in severe open fractures or a large area of injury.

Preparation for the procedure

At any time, duplex scanning of blood vessels can be performed. Preparation consists of avoiding or limiting certain types of food and drink. It is recommended to exclude tea, coffee, alcohol from the diet - these drinks cause vascular tone, which distorts the picture of the study.

At a preliminary consultation with a doctor, it is necessary to tell about the medications taken that affect the activity of the heart and blood vessels. The specialist must decide whether to stop taking medication.

How the study is done

The patient is sent to the ultrasound room on his own, in the direction of a doctor or through ambulance channels, in case of emergency hospitalization. A planned study refers to preventive measures, and an emergency study is carried out in case of suspected ischemic stroke, aortic aneurysm, thrombosis and other serious diseases.

In the office, the patient is laid down on the couch, frees the examined part of the body from clothing. The procedure begins with the application of a contact gel to the skin area, which improves the patency of the beam and ensures a better fit of the device to the skin. The data obtained during the procedure is displayed on the screen and read by the operator. Pictures are taken. The whole process takes no more than 30 minutes.

Decryption

The data of the study reflects the following indicators:

The thickness of the wall of the investigated vessel.
The presence of irregularities, seals on the surfaces of the vessel (internal, external).
Clearance size.
characteristics of blood flow.
The speed of blood movement.
Anatomical features.

Depending on the degree of deviations, the doctor prescribes subsequent diagnostic procedures using other methods. For example, irregularities on the walls of blood vessels may indicate the onset of atherosclerosis or the formation of a blood clot, a decrease in the cross section of the vessel may indicate stenosis. Ultrasound allows the specialist to get a picture of the state of the vessels and make the correct diagnosis to the patient.

Duplex scanning is an advanced diagnostic method that combines the already familiar ultrasound and dopplerography.

It has an advantage over the last two, which is expressed in the ability to diagnose vascular pathologies at the earliest stage of development. This is achieved due to the fact that with the help of a duplex it is possible to evaluate not only external characteristics, but also to examine the internal structure of blood vessels, to identify their internal pathology. Duplex ultrasound examination is a three-dimensional echography method with a high degree of information content, which is important in finding out the causes of diseases and making a diagnosis.

With all its research capabilities, this procedure is characterized by absolute safety and painlessness and the absence of contraindications and side effects. For the diagnostic procedure, the patient does not need special preparation. However, it requires a highly qualified doctor to obtain reliable results. This research provides an opportunity to:

reliable determination of any pathology of the vascular bed;
determining the speed of blood flow;
identifying the causes of changes and disturbances in blood flow.

Duplex scanning is a modern diagnostic method

Duplex ultrasound scanning is a modern method of ultrasound examination, with which you can get a two-dimensional image of blood vessels and determine the state of the circulatory system, the nature and speed of blood flow in it. The method is based on the action of ultrasonic waves of a high range. The data is obtained by means of an ultrasonic sensor, which visualizes information on the monitor of the device in the form of an image. The forerunner of duplex scanning was dopplerography.

The advantage of the new technique is that it allows not only to assess the direction and speed of blood flow, but also to determine the structural changes that occur in the walls of blood vessels and their lumen. Unlike conventional ultrasound, duplex examination allows you to visualize blood vessels in hard-to-reach places and carefully study their characteristics.

It is an absolutely safe diagnostic method that does not have any harmful effect on the human body, and therefore can be performed several times in a short period of time. It belongs to the category of non-invasive examination methods. Through such an ultrasound scan, the vessels, veins and arteries of the lower extremities, head and neck, and brachiocephalic arteries are examined. This diagnostic method is used in screening, to detect diseases that are asymptomatic, and also as a control after drug treatment or surgical intervention on the vessels.

After the end of the diagnostic procedure, the patient can lead a normal life, no complications are observed. Thus, ultrasound duplex scanning is a highly accurate method for diagnosing pathologies and diseases of the vascular system at an early stage of their development. Based on this diagnosis, the doctor has the opportunity to make a diagnosis and determine the tactics of treatment. Duplex scanning of blood vessels is performed for the following diseases:

thrombophlebitis and phlebothrombosis of the veins of the lower extremities;
vascular pathologies of the neck and brain;
varicose veins of the lower extremities;
atherosclerosis and inflammation of the blood arteries;
diabetic angiopathy of the vessels of the legs;
aneurysm of the aorta and blood vessels;
vascular injury;
vasculitis.

What are the symptoms of duplex scanning of brachiocephalic vessels? The blood supply to the brain is carried out by several arteries, one of which is brachiocephalic. It is the pathology of the brachiocephalic artery that can lead to serious consequences. It is known that it is in them that atherosclerosis develops most often. If the patient complains of frequent dizziness and headaches, noise in the head and ears, a feeling of pulsation in the temples, the doctor prescribes this diagnostic procedure to identify the causes of this condition and make a diagnosis. In addition, the basis for this procedure is the patient's complaints of weakness and drowsiness, unsteadiness of gait and memory impairment, instability of blood pressure and visual impairment. In addition to these symptoms, the duplex scanning procedure is performed before preparing for a heart operation, after a stroke and operations on the vessels of the head and neck, as well as after the detection of various cardiac pathologies.

Duplex scanning of brachiocephalic arteries allows:

Assess the condition of the walls of blood vessels.
Determine the rate of blood flow in them.
Recognize vascular lesions at an early stage of development.
Identify and determine the severity of atherosclerosis.
Identify the presence of stenosis and determine its severity.

The procedure is quite simple and does not require special training. During it, the patient is in a horizontal position, a special gel is applied to the neck and collarbone area. Next, the doctor works with a special sensor. The duration of the procedure is approximately 40 minutes, the patient can receive the results of the study immediately after its completion. The interpretation of the conclusion is carried out by the doctor, and on its basis drug therapy or surgical intervention is prescribed. Timely diagnosis allows you to avoid serious complications and start therapy. Duplex scanning of the brachiocephalic trunk will help identify the following pathologies:

Thrombi and atherosclerotic plaques and their location is determined.
Vascular stenosis. The degree of their narrowing is determined.
Underdevelopment of blood vessels, a change in their diameter and the degree of damage to their walls.
Aneurysms of vessels and arteries.
Atherosclerosis and angiopathy.
Abnormal crimp, elongation and bends.

Blood flow study of the head and neck

With the help of duplex scanning of the vessels of the head and neck, one can obtain comprehensive information about the state of the vascular blood flow of the brain, identify various vascular pathologies in the early stages of development, determine the degree of their patency and detect the presence of blood clots. The main advantage of this diagnostic method is the ability to detect the disease before the onset of tangible clinical symptoms. In addition, this method is non-invasive and does not require the use of medications, which means that allergic reactions will be excluded. This procedure is carried out according to the following indications:

persistent headaches;
osteochondrosis of the cervical region;
dizziness and fainting;
weakness in the limbs and unsteady gait;
cerebral hypertension;
diabetes mellitus and vasculitis;
significant reduction or loss of hearing;
constant feeling of noise in the ears;
sleep disturbance;
memory impairment and attention disorders;
postoperative pathology of cerebral vessels.

The diagnostic procedure has no contraindications for either age or condition, and can be repeated as many times as necessary. It does not adversely affect the state of the body. With the help of duplex scanning of the vessels of the head, it is possible to analyze the state of the vessels in the most inaccessible places, this is especially important in cases of cerebral blood flow disorders. Duplex scanning allows you to accurately visualize all the processes that occur in the vessels of the head.

Duplex scanning of the vessels of the neck and head is prescribed when pathologies of the following nature are detected:

endarteritis and atherosclerosis of vessels;
vascular injury;
aortic aneurysm;
thrombosis and thrombophlebitis;
phlebeurysm;
vasculitis;
diabetic angiopathy;
monitoring after vascular surgery.

As for the preparation for the examination, before the procedure it is necessary to free the head and neck from various decorations. On the day of the procedure, it is advisable to stop smoking and not to drink strong tea, coffee, energy drinks. The duration of the procedure takes no more than 30 minutes. During its implementation, a special gel is applied to the study area and ultrasonic waves are passed through a special sensor, through which the vessels are visualized.

Examination of the lower extremities using duplex scanning

Diseases of the vessels of the lower extremities is a fairly common phenomenon of our time. The lower extremities are characterized by a complex venous system, which is integrated into a single network. These are deep and superficial veins, small vessels and valves, with the help of which the blood flow moves in the upward direction. Due to the fact that the main venous vessels are deep, they cannot be seen with the eye and, accordingly, it is impossible to determine possible pathological changes in them. It is through them that almost 90% of the blood flow is carried out. Therefore, duplex scanning of the veins of the lower extremities and its entire circulatory system is the most reliable and accurate of the modern diagnostic methods. It is recommended for the manifestation of the following symptoms, which indicates the possibility of developing diseases:

swelling in the ankle area;
discomfort and pain in the legs at rest and in motion;
leg muscle cramps;
drawing sensation in the toes;
heaviness in the lower extremities;
visible spider veins on the legs;
changes in the saphenous veins;
the formation of trophic ulcers;
pathological changes in the skin of the lower extremities.

Duplex scanning of the vessels of the lower extremities will help to identify and determine the degree of development of such diseases as atherosclerosis of the vessels of the legs, endarteritis, varicose veins, thrombosis, embolism, saphenous vein thrombosis, blockage of deep veins. The purpose of diagnostics is to assess the patency of blood vessels and identify various formations in their lumen, as well as the study of blood flow indicators in them. As part of the duplex scanning of the arteries of the lower extremities, the examination is carried out:

Doppler and duplex scanning are two related methods of vascular ultrasound.

The essence and differences of methods

Dopplerography of the vessels of the brain, neck, upper and lower extremities, as well as their duplex scanning, belongs to non-invasive diagnostic procedures. Their advantage is affordable cost and the absence of contraindications, high information content.

Using the Doppler effect allows you to calculate the speed of blood flow, to determine its violation in individual vessels. Most often, these data are enough for the doctor to make an accurate diagnosis. In turn, duplex scanning of the vessels of the neck, head and extremities provides information not only on the quality of blood flow, but also on the geometry of the vascular lumen, the tortuosity of the channel, the presence of anatomical or postoperative anomalies, wall thickness, the appearance of blood clots and atherosclerotic plaques.

GNITsPM offers to use the possibilities of modern ultrasound diagnostics as part of a comprehensive or routine examination.

Indications for ultrasound diagnostics of blood vessels

Dopplerography of the vessels of the brain and other organs is appropriate as a diagnostic tool for routine preventive examinations, when the likelihood of serious problems is low. In patients with osteochondrosis, dopplerography of the vessels of the head and neck makes it possible to identify the effect of the disease on the circulatory system. Timely Dopplerography of the vessels of the lower extremities is important in making such diagnoses as:

varicose disease;
obliterating atherosclerosis and endarteritis;
deep vein thrombosis.

Since duplex scanning is more informative, it is effective for clarifying the diagnosis. Duplex scanning of cerebral vessels is prescribed in the same cases as conventional Doppler sonography, as well as if it is necessary to localize the problem area. This study is recommended for everyone over the age of 40, and visitors to our medical center are increasingly taking advantage of this opportunity.

In the prevention of such a dangerous disorder as a stroke, scanning of the brachiocephalic arteries plays an important role. It is prescribed for:

headaches or dizziness of unknown origin;
planning of surgical intervention in the cardiovascular system;
examination of people at risk of cerebrovascular accident;
the presence of symptoms of a developing stroke or compression of the region of the brachiocephalic arteries.

Duplex scanning of arteries of the lower extremities, as well as scanning of veins , gives the specialist a detailed picture of the state of the vessels. It not only displays the presence of blood flow disorders, but also explains their cause, whether it be vascular anomalies, the consequences of injuries, atherosclerotic changes, or something else. Most often, they turn to us in the direction of a phlebologist in order to scan the veins of the lower extremities.

If you have ever noticed:

swollen legs in the evening;
change in skin color, appearance of veins;
numbness and muscle pain when walking;
chilly feet,

then scanning the vessels of the lower extremities will clarify the nature of your condition, which means it will help you start corrective therapy in time.

The page is for informational purposes only. The exact list of services provided and the features of the procedures can be found by phone.