Uzi legs that they can show. When is it prescribed and what does ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities show: decoding

Ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities is a diagnostic medical procedure that allows you to identify problems with blood circulation in the vessels of the legs at an early stage. The method is also used both for differential diagnosis and for monitoring the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment.

Ultrasound of the legs should be done if the following symptoms are present:

• swelling in the feet, legs;
• regular tingling and numbness of the legs;
• expansion of venous structures and the appearance of vascular "asterisks";
• change in the shade of the epithelium on the lower extremities, cyanosis of the skin from the foot to the calf;
• prolonged healing of wounds, cuts and ulcers;
• a feeling of constant weakness in the legs, a possible change in their temperature;
• constant pain and cramps, which manifest themselves both during the day and at night;
• various pathological changes - cessation of hair growth on the legs, skin itching, a decrease in the volume of the lower leg and chromium;
• injuries of the knee joints;
• articular pathology.

An examination of the vessels of the legs is prescribed for the diagnosis of the following diseases:

• phlebeurysm;
• thrombophlebitis;
• atherosclerosis;
• thrombosis;
• spasm of the arteries of the legs;
• expansion of the arteries;
• inflammatory disease of the arteries, which leads to their narrowing;
• pathological connections between arteries and veins.

Contraindications

It is impossible to prescribe ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities if there are the following absolute contraindications:

• acute infectious processes;
• skin diseases;
• burns;
• serious condition of the patient;
• mental disorders;
• myocardial infarction;
• violation of cerebral circulation;
• insufficiency of coronary circulation;
• an attack of bronchial asthma;
• violation of the heart rhythm.

Relative contraindications are those conditions of the body in which the procedure will be uninformative, for example:

• obesity;
• swelling of tissues, which is provoked by lymphostasis;
• bloating.

What does it show?

With the help of ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities and small pelvis, you can:

• see the location of arteries, veins;
• evaluate their permeability;
• measure the size of the lumen of the vessels.

How often can you do it?

In order to prevent the development of vascular diseases twice a year, it is recommended to conduct an ultrasound scan for people with diabetes mellitus or obesity. Also, an ultrasound examination should be done once a year for those who have elevated blood cholesterol levels. People who are at risk - once every six months.

Types of ultrasound

For the diagnosis of arteries and veins of the lower extremities and the definition of diseases, three types of research are carried out:

• two-dimensional dopplerography;
• duplex angioscanning;
• triplex scanning.

These methods can be used both for screening in primary diagnosis and for in-depth research.

Ultrasound (two-dimensional dopplerography)

2D Doppler is the oldest method that produces a black and white image. This method of research shows the speed of blood flow. With the help of this indicator, it increases the accuracy of diagnosing a pathology that disrupts blood circulation and its severity.

Ultrasound of the vessels of the legs is prescribed for the following symptoms:

• cramps in the calf muscles;
• swelling of the legs;
• frequent redness, blanching, blue of the legs;
• heaviness in the legs;
• numbness, goosebumps;
• cramps of the calf muscles;
• pain after walking less than 1000 m;
• cold feet in warm weather, tendency to freeze;
• vascular networks, asterisks;
• the appearance of a bruise at the slightest blow.

This method allows you to define the following parameters:

• the shape and location of the vessels;
• vessel lumen diameter;
• condition of the vascular walls;
• condition of arterial and venous valves;
• the speed of blood flow in the legs;
• the presence of reflux, that is, the reverse discharge of blood;
• the presence of blood clots;
• size, density and structure of the thrombus;
• the presence of atherosclerotic plaques;
• the presence of arteriovenous malformations.

duplex scanning

Ultrasound is an ultrasound method of study that allows you to study in detail the state of the vascular system of the body, to identify diseases that affect the venous and arterial systems. The duplex of veins allows you to calculate the speed of blood flow, and based on its intensity, detect vascular disorders.

This method helps to determine the following parameters:

• the structure of a vein or artery;
• the width of the lumen of the cocyda;
• condition of venous valves;
• thickness of the wall of the cavity;
• the presence of a blood clot;
• the presence or absence of thrombus flotation;
• the degree of damage to cocydov;
• post-rhombotic states;
• synchronism of all indicators on the right and left sides.

Ultrasound examination helps to detect the following diseases:

• varicose veins;
• endarteritis;
• thrombophlebitis;
• post-thrombophlebitic syndrome;
• disruption of the venous valves;
• aneurysm;
• chronic venous insufficiency;
• diabetic foot;
• violation in the development of cocydov.

3D scanning

Triplex scanning of the veins of the lower extremities is a modern expert study that involves 3 modes:

• greyscale scanning (B-mode);
• color (color) Doppler mapping (CDC);
• spectral dopplerography (, ultrasound).

Ultrasound using deterministic frequencies penetrates into tissues and instantly visualizes the image of the vessel under study. The Doppler effect allows you to change the frequency of ultrasound.

With this research helps in:

• detection of congenital and acquired pathology of the veins of the lower extremities;
• assessment of the functional state of the valve apparatus.

This technique provides an opportunity to diagnose and prevent such types of diseases:

• phlebeurysm;
• atherosclerosis of the vessels of the lower extremities;
• thrombophlebitis;
• vasculitis;
• angiopathy;
• developmental anomalies and destruction of vascular sites;
• chronic venous insufficiency;
• post-thrombophlebitic diseases.

Triplex scanning of blood vessels also allows for postoperative control diagnostics.

Study preparation

Before an ultrasound you need:

• carry out hygiene procedures;
• give up prohibited foods, alcohol, tobacco, drugs;
• do not expose your legs to physical stress.

It is better to undergo ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities in the morning.

Refusal to take medicines

3 days before the ultrasound, you should stop taking drugs that can affect the systemic parameters of blood flow. If this is not possible, it is imperative to inform the doctor about the use of the drug. The specialist will be able to adjust the monitoring process.

Limiting the intake of food that speeds up the work of the heart

The day before the ultrasound, the following foods should be excluded from the diet:

• coffee;
• chocolate;
• natural and artificial heart stimulants.

Exclusion of alcohol and tobacco

It is necessary to exclude alcoholic beverages 2 days before the ultrasound. It is also forbidden to smoke 2-3 hours before the procedure.

Personal hygiene

If, due to individual characteristics, there is a thick hairline on the legs, it is recommended to shave it off to make it easier for the doctor to work. On the day of the procedure, it is necessary that the feet are clean.

How is it carried out?

Ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities is done as follows:

1. To begin, the patient must remove clothing below the waist, except for underwear.
2. Next, you need to lie down on the couch, and spread your legs shoulder-width apart so that the device has full access to the inside of the thigh.
3. The ultrasound doctor applies a gel to the surface of the leg area to be examined and passes the probe over the skin.
4. The image of the vessels is broadcast on the computer screen, on the basis of which the doctor will be able to determine the reasons that caused the narrowing of the vessel.

During the differential diagnosis, the specialist may ask the patient to rise to his feet in order to conduct a study in a standing position.

When examining the arteries, pressure is measured to compare values ​​in the shoulder and ankle.

To detect a backflow of blood, the doctor may perform two special tests:

1. Compression test - the limb is squeezed and the blood flow in the compressed vessels is assessed.
2. Valsalva test - a breath is taken, while the nose and mouth are clamped. During this test, it is also necessary to push a little, trying to exhale. If there is an initial stage of varicose veins, reflux may occur during this test.

It takes about 10-15 minutes to examine the vessels in total.

Channel Center for Innovative Phlebology talks about how ultrasound is performed

Pros and cons of research

Pros of the study:

• the state of the vessels of the legs is a non-invasive method, the patient does not experience any discomfort during the procedure;
• doppler is available to most patients due to the relatively low price;
• there is no harmful effect of ionizing radiation, so the study can be repeated as many times as necessary;
• ultrasonic waves can be reflected from soft tissues, due to which it is possible to get a complete picture of the state of the vascular system of the legs.

Cons of the study:

• poor image of small arteries and veins on ultrasound;
• atherosclerotic plaques can interfere with the passage of sound waves, which greatly complicates the diagnosis;
• , MRI or CT.

Deciphering the results

To decipher the results of ultrasound, it is necessary to use a special protocol in which all the data and indicators that were obtained as a result of the examination are entered:

• bilateral vein assessment;
• reaction to breath tests;
• reaction to compression by the sensor;
• characteristics of the vascular wall (elasticity, rigidity, thickening);
• type of blood flow and its compliance with the norms.
• the presence of blood clots in the lumen of blood vessels;
• consistency of valves;
• pathological venous refluxes;
• the presence of stenosis and its volume in percent.
• location of insolvent communicating veins;
• the presence of plaques and their characteristics: mobility, location, uniformity of composition, complications.

To assess the flow of blood, the following indicators are used:

1. Maximum blood flow rate for each vessel.
2. PI is the pulsation index. Shows the maximum spread of velocities in the vessel during the cardiac cycle, i.e. one pulsation.
3. DF is the damping factor. It characterizes the ratio between the pulsation index in the far and near parts of the limb.
4. Blood pressure parameters. Each of the vessels has its own norms, in addition, the doctor must pay attention to the difference in pressure. Between different limbs, it should not exceed 20 units.
5. RI is the index of peripheral vascular resistance (resistance).
6. ABI - ankle-brachial index

The parameters of the norm and pathology can be seen in the table:

Only a specialist can decipher the data, usually a phlebologist.

As with other examination methods, the information content of ultrasound directly depends on the qualifications of the specialist and the modernity of the diagnostic apparatus.

Where is ultrasound of the lower extremities performed and how much does it cost?

Ultrasound is performed in any commercial and government general clinics.

Average prices per procedure.

In cases where a doctor gives a referral for an ultrasound scan, you can undergo a study for free at any clinic, but at the same time, you often have to sign up for the procedure in advance or stand in line for a long time.

Ultrasound of the vessels of the upper and lower extremities is one of the most informative, safe, and fastest diagnostic methods that allow assessing the degree of vascular pathology and identifying it at the early stages of the development of the disease. The initial method of examination is ultrasound of the vessels of the upper and lower extremities. Supported by duplex angioscanning (USDS), this technique has no analogues in terms of studying the pathology of the vessels of the upper and lower extremities.

Principles of vascular ultrasound

The ultrasound method is based on the ability of low ultra-frequency reflections from objects in motion. Analyzing the data obtained by means of ultrasound sensors, a specially compiled algorithm (computer program) builds a graphical representation of the features of blood flow and vascular structure. A number of devices allow you to see a color image of the recorded processes. The movement of blood and the pulsation of the veins and arteries of the upper and lower extremities can not only be seen, but also heard.

Indications for ultrasound examination of the lower extremities

Ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities is a safe and affordable research method. However, like any medical procedure, it should be used according to indications and under the supervision of a medical specialist. If you have any disturbing symptoms, you need to contact a phlebologist.

Indications for ultrasound of the arteries and veins can be:

• parasthesia (tingling, crawling, numbness);
• telangioctasia (spider veins), visible expansion of the venous walls;
• swelling in the legs, feet (with a predominance of unilateral);
• changes in the color of the skin of the legs (from brown to purple);
• long-term non-healing wounds/scratches, trophic ulcers;
• pain, heaviness and cramps of the calf muscles;
• pallor or cyanosis of the skin of the feet;
• skin itching in the leg area;
• night pains in the calf muscles;
• weakness in the legs, noticeable during exercise;
• intermittent (appearing and passing) lameness;
• cold extremities regardless of the ambient temperature;
• a decrease in the volume of the lower leg, a decrease in hair growth, etc.

Additional indications for an ultrasound examination of the vessels of the lower extremities are: hypertension, diabetes mellitus, obesity. As well as myocardial infarction and vascular surgery on the legs, an increase in the level of "bad" cholesterol in the blood.

Types of ultrasound diagnostics of blood vessels

There are a lot of questions about the terminology of ultrasound diagnostics. What is the correct name for this study? Any study using ultra-low frequencies is an ultrasound. There are several hardware methods for angiodiagnosis of arteries and veins, both of the upper and lower extremities:

• Ultrasound Doppler/Doppler- graphic registration of blood flow, with the determination of the quantitative and qualitative characteristics of its speed. It is used to detect diseases of the arteries and veins of the upper and lower extremities. The method is quite simple, takes a little time, there are portable devices that will allow examination of seriously ill patients.
• Duplex angioscanning (USDS or USAS). This is a combination of spectral Doppler study and color mapping. Areas with different blood flow rates are colored in different shades, opposite colors are colored in different directions of blood flows (from the sensor and to the sensor). Allows you to determine the state of the vessel, its anatomical features and defects, evaluate the blood flow, its qualitative and quantitative characteristics.
• Triplex angiscanning of blood vessels- Volumetric color study of the vascular system. It is of the greatest value in preoperative examinations. Suitable for those patients who have a serious pathology of the arteries and veins of the lower and upper extremities.

Where can I do an ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities? The studies described above are available at any phlebology center or medical institutions that include the Department of Vascular Surgery.

Preparation for ultrasound diagnostics of the lower extremities

This procedure does not require special preparation, diet, withdrawal of venotonics or other drugs that you take on an ongoing basis, etc. The usual hygienic procedures of the body and feet are welcome as preparation. The main preparation is to take a diaper (lay the couch) with you and remove the compression garment (if you wear one) before the examination.

Ultrasound diagnostics of pathological processes in the veins and arteries of the legs

Diseases of the venous system of the lower extremities require constant monitoring in order to timely determine the need for surgery or track the effectiveness of treatment.

There are no analogues in terms of safety, informativeness, harmlessness and accessibility to this method. Ultrasound of the vessels of the legs allows diagnosing the following pathologies with a high degree of certainty:

• CVI - chronic venous insufficiency;
• phlebothrombosis - blockage of a vein by a thrombus without inflammation of the vascular wall;
• thrombophlebitis - blockage of a vein by a thrombus with inflammation of the vascular wall;
• varicose veins;
• acquired valvular insufficiency of the venous system of the lower extremities.

Only with the help of ultrasound it is possible to mark the veins before surgery. Any violations of arterial blood supply require diagnostic procedures, primarily ultrasound. The main ones are:

• aortic pathologies;
• thrombosis and embolism of arteries;
• obliterating diseases (endarteritis and atherosclerosis) of the arteries;
• Raynaud's syndrome;
• HAN - chronic arterial insufficiency;
• aneurysms of peripheral arteries, etc.

Transcription of ultrasound readings

In medicine, certain standardized methods have been adopted for recording the results of an ultrasound study of the vessels of the upper and lower extremities. A correct understanding of the record allows you to assess the degree of development of the disease, and the doctor to prescribe or correct the course of treatment.

The main indicators are as follows:

• blood flow velocity recorded during contraction and relaxation: maximum (Vmax) and minimum (Vmin);
• index of peripheral resistance (resistivity, RI);
• pulsation index - an indicator that characterizes the lumen of the vessel (PI);
• thickness of the intima-media layer (intima and middle shell, TIM).

Ultrasound of the vessels of the legs allows you to identify pathology at the very beginning of its development. In some cases, if you change your lifestyle (adjust nutrition, add physical activity for people suffering from physical inactivity, get rid of bad habits), you can reverse or at least significantly slow down pathological vascular processes. The only competitor in the field of angiodiagnosis for ultrasound is angiography, but due to its trauma, invasiveness and complexity of execution, ultrasound scanning remains the preferred method of examination in most cases.

Anyone can be touched. In order to avoid further complications, to obtain a correct diagnosis and appropriate treatment, ultrasound of the lower extremities can be performed, which gives accurate results. Pain in the legs can be a symptom of a serious illness. From this article you will learn how ultrasound of the lower extremities is done. Photos will illustrate the process.

What could be the reasons?

Ultrasound examination of the legs is currently in demand among diagnostic methods. Its essence is quite simple: ultrasonic waves are used for examination, which help to give an objective assessment of the state of the vessels of the lower extremities.

Too energetic or, on the contrary, a sedentary lifestyle, uncomfortable shoes, bad habits - all this can be the beginning of vascular diseases. And this often causes a lot of discomfort. For this reason, disease must be fought.

Ultrasound of the lower extremities should be performed if there are any vascular disorders, namely:

• detection of stars from small vessels or dilated veins on the skin of the legs;
• numbness and a feeling of tingling;
• pale feet;
• muscle spasms of the back of the leg;
• exhaustion of the lower extremities due to stress;
• compression of the skin on the legs, its darkening and long-term non-healing trophic ulcers;
• narrowing of the lower leg in size, changes in muscle strength, tone, hair growth;
• a feeling of coolness in the legs and their rapid freezing, despite the normal air temperature;
• the appearance of pain in the legs during movement, any load and at rest, which often indicates the need for ultrasound of the lower extremities;
• blue fingers or the entire foot;
• swelling of the legs, especially one-sided.

Advantages of Ultrasound

Ultrasound of the lower extremities makes it possible to examine the vessels with maximum clarity, without irradiating the patient, as well as the doctor. Due to the non-invasive focus, this procedure can be performed multiple times with the same patient.

Today, in private modern clinics, ultrasound is performed not only on the external veins of the legs, but also on the deep ones. The cost of such an examination is higher, but it can be used to prevent the formation of asymptomatic vascular diseases. And for sure, many are wondering: where to do an ultrasound of the lower extremities?

Ultrasound examination of the deep veins of the legs is far from being performed everywhere, since the manufacturers of the current technology have only recently introduced devices for such an examination into medical centers. When performing ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities, the price of the event will be directly determined by the qualifications of the attending medical staff, the level of depreciation and the cost of the medical equipment with which the procedure itself is carried out.

How is an ultrasound of the lower extremities done?

The process of examining the vessels of the legs is no different from a conventional ultrasound examination. A special gel is applied to the diseased limb, which is necessary for closer contact with the device. The duration of the ultrasound is no more than an hour. The event is completely painless. Only in certain cases additional injections are needed.

It is also completely unnecessary to prepare for an ultrasound examination of the blood vessels of the legs. The patient may not restrict himself in food before the examination and not stop taking daily medications.

Since the procedure takes a rather long period, the patient is allowed to eat something before the process itself, and this will not affect the results. You can wear a skirt or comfortable pants.

The purpose of such an event

Ultrasound of the lower extremities always adheres to certain goals:

• see the patency of the vessels, as well as the capacity of the entire venous system;
• examine the general condition of tissues and veins;
• check venous blood flow.

In order for the procedure for checking the vessels of the legs to give good results, the study must be performed in three positions: lying on your back, stomach and standing. You can watch how ultrasound of the lower extremities is done . The photo below shows the procedure.

What diseases can be found out after ultrasound?

The event of examining the blood vessels of the legs helps to determine many different ailments:

1. Persistent venous insufficiency.
2. Phlebothrombosis (formation of blood clots in the deep venous system).
3. Varicose disease.
4. Valvular insufficiency of subcutaneous, perforating and deep veins.
5. Thrombophlebitis (development of blood clots in external veins).

Where can you get tested?

In order to find out exactly where the ultrasound diagnosis of the blood vessels of the lower extremities is performed, you should contact a vascular surgeon. The doctor can independently conduct it in a specialized center or a multidisciplinary clinic or advise a specialist in whom he has confidence. It is also possible to perform an ultrasound examination of the legs absolutely free of charge in the Department of Vascular Surgery of the Central State Hospital.

For a fee, you can go through an examination at the nearest phlebological center, finding out the price for the event by phone. The cost of such a diagnosis will depend on which particular blood vessels will be examined.

Now many have become aware of how and where ultrasound of the lower extremities is done. It remains only to decide on the place of its holding.

Content

Foot health is determined by the prevention of pathologies, competent care, timely diagnosis of diseases. To examine the vessels of the legs, ultrasound (ultrasound) is often used. It helps to identify violations, differentiate them from others, keep records of the effectiveness of the prescribed treatment.

Types of ultrasound examination of blood vessels

The procedure for ultrasound examination of the vessels of the lower extremities is a simple, common and safe examination technique that has no absolute contraindications. With the help of the procedure, accurate information about the condition of the arteries is obtained.

The essence of the study is the penetration of waves of different density through the boundaries of tissues. Ultrasound is reflected from tissues and recorded by equipment that visually displays information. As a result, the doctor receives a picture of the state of the vessels of the legs. All types of ultrasound are divided into dopplerography, scanning and triplex examination.

Evaluation of blood vessels and detection of pathologies of the lower and upper extremities is carried out by ultrasound.

The method helps to identify existing problems and prescribe competent treatment of identified venous abnormalities.

With the help of ultrasound, diseases can be diagnosed at an early stage.

A qualitative diagnostic assessment is possible by calculating the following parameters:

• lumen diameter;
• wall evaluation;
• blood flow analysis;
• features of blood flow using a special triplex 3 D-mode.

Ultrasonic dopplerography of vessels

Ultrasound scan easily detects blood flow disorders, but it is not always possible to establish the cause. This method does not visualize the walls of blood vessels and their pathological bends, but they affect the speed of blood flow and its quality. Doppler examination is prescribed for symptoms of obliterating diseases: endarteritis, Takayasu's disease, atherosclerosis of the vessels of the feet; varicose veins.

Duplex scanning of the veins of the lower extremities

When conducting ultrasound, a two-dimensional color image of the examined sector of the limb is transmitted to the monitor. The advantages of the technique are the objectivity of the results, the ability to obtain data on structural changes in the walls. In real time, background and induced blood flow parameters are recorded, and peripheral circulatory systems are checked. The technique finds out the causes of obstruction of the circulatory system, provides information about the valves of the veins.

Ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities of this type is the fastest in time, accurate, but the price for it is higher than for the rest. It expands the capabilities of duplex by adding color Doppler modes, i.e. a color image of the movement of blood in the vessels, which can more clearly judge the direction of blood flow and its speed, as well as allowing a more accurate assessment of vascular patency and the degree of stenosis. Three goals are achieved, which determined the name of the method - triplex:

• the anatomy of the vessels is studied;
• blood flow is assessed;
• an accurate assessment of the patency of the vessels in the color mode is made.

When is the diagnosis of the vessels of the legs needed?

Ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities and other subspecies of ultrasound have the following indications according to phlebologists:

• heaviness in the legs after prolonged standing work;
• convulsions;
• visible saphenous veins;
• pallor and darkening of the skin;
• aneurysms;
• weakness of the body for no reason, the inability to stand for a long time.

Detectable pathologies

Dopplerography of the vessels of the lower extremities and other types of diagnostics help to identify such pathologies:

• varicose veins;
• asymptomatic initial vascular lesions;
• the presence of segments of narrowing of the arteries (stenosis);
• disturbed blood flow;
• the presence of cholesterol plaques;
• a- and hypoplasia;
• thrombus in the vessels;
• aneurysms;
• thromboembolism;
• phlebothrombosis;
• Raynaud's syndrome;
• valvular disease;
• chronic vascular insufficiency;
• extravasal compression;
• trauma, arteritis; post-thrombophlebitic syndrome.

How to prepare for an ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities

• it is advisable to give up smoking for a day;
• in the norm for 3 days - from alcohol and drugs that affect the state of blood flow;
• do not use strong tea, coffee and other artificial stimulants;
• it is important to remain calm before carrying out.

How is vascular ultrasound done?

The procedure for conducting an ultrasound examination is carried out in stages. Steps:

1. Undress to underwear.
2. Lying on the couch, spread your legs shoulder-width apart.
3. After the specialist will apply a gel to the surface of the skin, he will drive a sensor to read the state of the vessels. When diagnosing, you will need to get up at the request of the doctor.
4. An ultrasound of the arteries measures blood pressure. With ultrasound of deep veins, you additionally need to “strain” and not breathe for a while.

What does an ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities show?

The study determines the location, evaluates the patency of the vessels. The doctor judges the functionality of the valves, anomalies that affect blood flow. Researched indicators:

1. ABI - ankle-brachial index. A value from 0.9 to 1.4, with an increase in pulsation, they indicate increased loads. At a low rate, patency is impaired.
2. The index of pressure between the shoulder and the finger - the limits are set at 0.8-0.9.
3. The blood flow velocity in the femoral artery is 100 cm per second, in the lower leg - 50 cm per second.
4. The resistance of the femoral artery is at least 1 m/s, with a deviation they speak of ischemia.
5. The pulsation index of the artery is above 1.8 m per second. At low rates, narrowing can be judged.
6. Main blood flow for large arteries. With deviations, there are narrowings. Turbulent flow indicates stenosis. The causes are thromboembolism, a tumor.

The essence of ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities (ultrasound of the vessels of the legs) is that with the help of a special device for diagnostics, ultrasonic waves are purposefully sent to the circulatory system of the legs, after which the sensor captures the reflected waves, displaying images on the monitor. This type of ultrasound is performed with the Doppler effect, which allows you to get a picture of the state of the vessels, their movement and patency.

The price of ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities - ultrasound of the vessels of the legs in Moscow

The advantage of the procedure is its accuracy, painlessness, as well as the availability and absence of contraindications. Due to the fact that the procedure does not have a negative effect on the body, this diagnosis is prescribed for children and pregnant women. Ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities provides a lot of advantages for specialists who have the opportunity to conduct modern detection of various neoplasms in soft tissues.

Indications for ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities

Ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities is recommended for patients with diabetes mellitus, in preoperative studies, as well as in order to identify a number of diseases:

• thromboangiitis;
• development of disorders caused by the presence of blood clots;
• atherosclerosis,
• valvular vascular insufficiency,
• detection of varicose veins.

Ultrasound of the legs is indicated in the presence of the following symptoms:

• expansion of the saphenous veins,
• tingling in the legs,
• cold toes,
• the occurrence of spider veins,
• swelling, numbness and cramps in the limbs,
• pain in the legs resulting from prolonged exertion,
• preoperative diagnosis.

Indicators of ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities (ultrasound of the lower extremities is the norm)

The vessels of the lower extremities normally have the following characteristics:

• contours are clear and even,
• femoral artery wall thickness - 0.11 cm,
• passages of circulatory objects are clearly visible,
• hypoechoic vessels,
• the structure is homogeneous.

Preparation for ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities (legs)

This diagnosis does not require special preparation. There is no need to limit food and drink, which allows you to undergo the procedure at any time of the day. If the patient is taking drugs that change vascular tone or pressure, then it is worth informing the doctor about this, since such drugs can change the diameter of the vessels, thereby making it difficult to correctly diagnose and make a diagnosis.

Ultrasound examination of the arteries of the lower extremities

The study area starts from the groin and ends at the feet, since the ultrasound effect extends to the following arteries:

• iliac,
• femoral
• popliteal,
• tibial,
• fibula,
• foot arteries.

The larger the artery, the higher the blood flow velocity in it, which means that for the most accurate visualization it is necessary to use low-frequency sensors. So, for the aorta and iliac arteries, sensors with a frequency of 3.5 MHz are used, for the femoral - 5 MHz, and for studying other arteries - 7-10 MHz.

The procedure begins with the patient lying down or sitting on the couch. The doctor treats the surface of the legs with a special gel, which is used for the best conductivity of the sensor, and is removed after the procedure is completed. Scanning is carried out at different positions and various manipulations of the person being examined, for example, it may be necessary to tie a tourniquet on the shins or raise and bend the legs. To study the iliac and femoral arteries, the patient must be in a supine position, with the legs slightly bent at the knees and moving them to the sides. To study the popliteal arteries, you need to lie on your stomach, and, straightening your legs, put your feet on the couch. The study of the tibial, peroneal and foot arteries is carried out lying on your back, while the legs should be bent at the knees at a right angle and somewhat laid aside. The diagnosis is completed when the doctor checks the results and completes the protocol.

The fastest way to cope with such pathologies as atherosclerosis or the presence of plaques in the vessels that prevent normal blood flow is possible due to their early detection using ultrasound of the arteries of the lower extremities. To date, ultrasound of the legs in Moscow is in high demand and has many advantages over other methods: accessibility, no radiation exposure, viewing and evaluating images of internal tissues and organs in real time. In our medical center, you can undergo ultrasound diagnostics of the arteries of the lower extremities in absolutely comfortable conditions, because this method has practically no restrictions.

Ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities is an affordable and effective diagnosis of the state of the venous system of the legs using ultrasound. Proper ultrasound diagnosis is a key factor in the treatment of various abnormalities, identifying them even in the early stages of development.

There are several types of ultrasound examinations:

1. Angioscanning

This method is carried out due to the reflection of ultrasound from the tissues, displayed on the monitor of the apparatus as an image. Allows you to identify deviations in the tissue structure of the legs, bends, blood clots and seals.

1. Doppler scanning

Doppler scanning allows you to visualize the blood flow passing in the vessels of the limbs, as well as obtain information about its speed and direction of movement. Detects the presence of deep vein thrombosis

1. Duplex sonography

Ultrasound of the vessels of the legs in Moscow (examination of the lower extremities) includes the technique of angioscanning and Doppler scanning. Duplex sonography reveals any abnormalities of the venous system.

Being a modern and affordable method, ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities is widely used among different groups of people:

• pregnant,
• who are overweight,
• frequently lifting weights
• constantly working on their feet,
• women who prefer high heels.

• weakened pulse on palpation of the legs,
• swelling of the legs in the evening,
• the presence of varicose veins,
• hereditary predisposition to diseases of the vessels of the legs,
• the presence of cosmetic defects (vascular networks, enlarged veins, bruises),
• sudden muscle spasms
• decreased sensation in the legs
• chilliness and chilliness in the legs.

Also, the reason for the ultrasound of the vessels of the legs is a number of diseases:

• diabetes,
• atherosclerosis,
• arterial hypertension,
• insufficiency of venous circulation,
• intermittent lameness.

Venous insufficiency leads to impaired blood circulation, as well as to its stagnation in the vessels. Often, patients are referred for ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities after other examinations, since this rather serious disease does not have pronounced subjective symptoms.

Often, ultrasound is prescribed when pathologies are detected after the following examinations:

• functional tests for venous insufficiency,
• radiography of the lungs and heart,
• heart ultrasound,
• Coagulogram indicators (analysis for blood clotting index),
• coronary angiography.

Timely study of the venous bed with the help of ultrasound allows you to identify various deviations from the norm in the early stages, which significantly speeds up the course of treatment.

Contraindications for ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities

Ultrasound is an affordable and fairly accurate method for diagnosing pathologies or a way to assess the dynamics of a patient's disease, but like any other method, it has limitations in its implementation. The limitations include those conditions or reactions of the body in which the result of the procedure will be uninformative:

• mental disorders,
• severe condition of the patient
• violation of the integrity of the skin,
• burns,
• infectious processes,
• serious condition of the patient (myocardial infarction, cardiac arrhythmia, cerebrovascular accident).

The presence of such conditions limits the patient in all diagnostic examinations. In some cases, the patient may feel discomfort associated with the duration of the procedure, during which the patient is constantly in a horizontal position. It should be borne in mind that the restrictions are temporary, their elimination makes the ultrasound procedure safe and informative.

During the procedure, the doctor receives a clear image of the vessels in real time, and also allows you to evaluate the following parameters:

• blood flow assessment,
• measurement of blood flow parameters,
• setting the location and size of the thrombus,
• see venous insufficiency of the valvular apparatus of the veins,
• determination of the size of the lumen of the veins and the presence of constrictions at different levels.

During the study, the doctor compares each vein of the left and right legs, checks for the presence of blood clots, in the detection of which he studies their size, size, mobility, and also assesses the state of blood flow and the state of venous valves.

Preparation for ultrasound of the vessels of the legs

In order to make an ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities, special preparation is not required, which allows the study to be carried out at any time convenient for the patient. There is no need to limit yourself to any foods or drinks. To exclude possible difficulties in making a diagnosis and conducting a diagnosis, the patient must inform the doctor about the drugs he is taking.

Ultrasound examination of the veins of the lower extremities

Ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities is a modern non-invasive method (the skin is not exposed to the use of needles or surgical instruments), which does not carry a radiation load, which can be repeated many times for one patient. The following large veins are examined:

• femoral,
• iliac,
• small subcutaneous,
• large subcutaneous,
• popliteal,
• leg veins.

The standard ultrasound of the vessels of the legs includes an assessment of blood flow, valves, the state of the vessels that connect the venous network.

Diagnostics is carried out according to a certain scheme, it lasts about 40-60 minutes. The subject lies on the couch, freeing the calves and thighs from clothing, as these parts of the body will be examined. A transparent gel is applied to the area of ​​the examined tissue, which promotes the best conductivity. Next, the doctor examines the legs by running the sensor over the body. First of all, the blood flow in the superficial veins of the thigh is studied. Next, the Valsalva test is carried out, in other words, the condition of the valves of the great saphenous vein is assessed. The popliteal vein is examined and the superficial, common and deep veins of the thigh are examined. The leg veins and their valves are visible in the standing position. The vessels connecting the venous network in the region of the thigh and lower leg are studied last. This diagnosis is able to detect the presence of blood clots and their location, often it is thanks to ultrasound that this or that disease is determined, and the treatment tactics are also determined. Upon completion of the procedure, the gel is removed with a napkin from the surface of the skin, and the doctor prints out the recorded results.

Today, ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities in Moscow is in great demand, due to the fact that this diagnostic is safe, affordable and does not have a negative effect on the body. Our medical center offers this procedure at an adequate price and in comfortable conditions.