Blood flow studies

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Duplex/doppler ultrasound test

Overview Risks Results

Blood flow studies

As part of a duplex ultrasound, the doctor may calculate an ABI or ankle-brachial index. This number is obtained by dividing the pressurein the ankle by the pressure in the arm. A value of 0.9 or greater is normal. Your doctor will alsocheck the flow of blood in the vessels with the ultrasound.

An ABI of less than 0.5 is linked to peripheral vascular (arterial) disease.

Other abnormal blood flow patterns can be seen with:

• Deep venous thrombosis (thrombophlebitis is an inflammation of a vein due to a blood clot)
• Superficial thrombophlebitis
• Communicating vein thrombophlebitis

These tests, or tests like them, may also be performed for additional conditions:

• Raynaud's phenomenon
• Stroke secondary to carotid dissection or carotid artery narrowing

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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