Indications:
- Absent peripheral pulses
- Limb trauma
- Arterial trauma
- Exercise related limb pain
- Limb pain at rest
- Extremity ulcers/gangrene
- Known vascular disease
- Follow-up limb revascularisation
Contraindications and limitations:
- Excessive size of lower limb (extreme obesity, extreme musculature or oedema)
- Painful ulcers in the lower leg and/or in the ankle region
- Lower limb dressings that cannot be removed
Patient preparation:
- On the day of the ultrasound, refrain from applying oils or moisturisers to the lower limb
PLEASE BRING RELEVANT, PREVIOUS DIAGNOSTIC REPORTS AND ULTRASOUND WORKSHEETS TO YOUR ULTRASOUND AND DOCTORS APPOINTMENT
What to wear:
Loose-fitting clothes, for example; elasticated skirt/pants/shorts and a loose-fitting top.
Ultrasound study technique:
This is a non-invasive diagnostic study. The patient will lie on a bed, with the head of the bed slightly elevated for comfort. A blood pressure (BP) cuff will be applied to the lower limb, just above the ankle. Ultrasound gel will be applied to the ankles. An ultrasound probe will be used to locate the posterior tibial artery and the anterior tibial artery. Whilst the sonographer images the artery and applies spectral Doppler, to listen to the pulse, the BP cuff will be inflated to a pressure of approximately 160-180mmHg, then deflated. The BP will be recorded. This will be repeated 2 or 3 times per limb. The arm BP’s will then be obtained, and a brachial/ankle index calculated. Images will be obtained, and the results documented on a worksheet.
Ultrasound study time:
15 minutes
Results:
A worksheet can be available, if requested. A formal written report will be available within 24 to 48 hours, following the ultrasound examination, Monday to Friday. If the ultrasound findings demonstrate pathology, which may require urgent attention, the referring Doctor will be notified ASAP following the completion of the ultrasound.