Doppler Ultrasound

Ultrasound, Doppler

What Affects the Test

Reasons you may not be able to have the test or why the results may not be helpful include:

• Bones above the area being studied or gas in the intestines.
• Not being able to remain still during the test.
• Extreme obesity.
• Irregular heart rhythms (arrhythmias) or heart disease, which may cause changes in blood flow patterns even though the blood vessels are not abnormal.
• Having a cold arm or leg. Blood flow through that limb may be slowed.
• Having an open wound in the area that needs to be viewed.

Go to previous section	Go to top of page	Go to next section
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS	Last Updated: January 5, 2009
Medical Review:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology
© 1995-2009 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.