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Doppler Ultrasound Test

A Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves to show how well your blood flows through your blood vessels. It can help find narrowed arteries, blood clots, and other conditions that affect blood flow.

What this test measures

A Doppler ultrasound measures the speed and direction of blood flow in your blood vessels. It uses sound waves that bounce off red blood cells to create images or graphs showing blood flow.

What your results mean

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Doppler ultrasound used for?

It is used to diagnose problems that affect blood flow, such as narrowed arteries, blood clots, aneurysms, heart valve diseases, and congenital heart defects.

How does a Doppler ultrasound work?

It bounces sound waves off red blood cells flowing through your blood vessels. The device measures the echoes, which differ based on whether cells are moving toward or away from the sound waves.

What are the different types of Doppler ultrasound?

Types include color Doppler (shows speed and direction in colors), power Doppler (shows slower flow in smaller vessels but not direction), spectral Doppler (shows flow in a graph), and duplex Doppler (combines standard ultrasound images with a graph).

Can a Doppler ultrasound be used during pregnancy?

Yes, if there are concerns about blood flow to the fetus, a Doppler ultrasound can check the baby's blood flow.

What do abnormal Doppler ultrasound results mean?

Abnormal results depend on the area tested and the type of Doppler used. You should talk with your provider about what your results say about your health and need for treatment.

Sources

Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.