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 prescribed treatment.

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

• swelling in the area of ​​the feet and legs;
• regular tingling and numbness in the legs;
• expansion of venous structures and the appearance of spider veins;
• change in the shade of the epithelium on the lower extremities, cyanotic skin from the foot to the calf;
• long-term healing of wounds, cuts and ulcers;
• a feeling of constant weakness in the legs, a possible change in their temperature;
• constant pain and cramps that occur both day and night;
• various pathological changes - cessation of hair growth on the legs, itching, reduction in the volume of the lower leg and chrome;
• knee joint injuries;
• joint pathology.

Examination of the blood vessels of the legs is prescribed to diagnose the following diseases:

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

Contraindications

Ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities cannot be prescribed if the following absolute contraindications exist:

• acute infectious processes;
• skin diseases;
• burns;
• serious condition of the patient;
• mental disorders;
• myocardial infarction;
• cerebrovascular accident;
• coronary circulatory insufficiency;
• attack of bronchial asthma;
• heart rhythm disturbance.

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

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

What does it show?

Using ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities and pelvis, you can:

• see the location of arteries and veins;
• evaluate their passability;
• measure the size of the lumens of blood vessels.

How often can I do it?

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

Types of ultrasound

To diagnose the arteries and veins of the lower extremities and determine diseases, three types of studies are performed:

• two-dimensional Doppler sonography;
• duplex angioscanning;
• triplex scanning.

The listed methods can be used both for screening during primary diagnosis and for in-depth research.

Ultrasound Dopplerography (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. Using this indicator, it increases the accuracy of diagnosing pathologies that impair blood circulation and its severity.

Ultrasound scanning of leg vessels is prescribed for the following symptoms:

• cramps in the calf muscles;
• swelling of the legs;
• frequent redness, paleness, blue discoloration of the legs;
• heaviness in the legs;
• numbness, goosebumps;
• calf muscle cramps;
• 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 determine the following parameters:

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

Duplex scanning

Ultrasound scanning 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. Vein duplex 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:

• structure of a vein or artery;
• width of the lumen of the vessel;
• condition of venous valves;
• thickness of the vessel wall;
• presence of a blood clot;
• presence or absence of thrombus flotation;
• degree of vascular damage;
• post-thrombotic conditions;
• synchrony of all indicators on the right and left sides.

Ultrasound scanning helps to identify the following diseases:

• varicose veins;
• endarteritis;
• thrombophlebitis;
• post-thrombophlebitis syndrome;
• disruption of the functioning of venous valves;
• aneurysm;
• chronic venous insufficiency;
• diabetic foot;
• disturbance in the development of blood vessels.

3D scanning

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

• gray scale scanning (B-mode);
• color (color) Doppler mapping (CDC);
• spectral Dopplerography (USDG).

Ultrasound penetrates tissue using deterministic frequencies and instantly visualizes an image of the vessel being examined. The Doppler effect allows you to change the frequency of ultrasound.

Through this research helps in:

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

This technique makes it possible to diagnose and prevent the following types of diseases:

• varicose veins;
• atherosclerosis of blood vessels of the lower extremities;
• thrombophlebitis;
• vasculitis;
• angiopathy;
• developmental anomalies and destruction of vascular areas;
• chronic venous insufficiency;
• postthrombophlebitic diseases.

Triplex scanning of vessels also allows for control postoperative diagnostics.

Preparing for the study

Before the ultrasound you need:

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

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

Refusal to take medications

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

Limiting the consumption of foods that speed up the heart rate

The day before the ultrasound, you should exclude the following foods from your diet:

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

Elimination of alcohol and tobacco

It is necessary to avoid alcoholic drinks 2 days before the ultrasound. Smoking is also prohibited 2-3 hours before the procedure.

Personal hygiene

If, due to individual characteristics, there is thick hair 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 your 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 on the couch and spread your legs shoulder-width apart so that the device has full access to the inner thigh.
3. The ultrasound doctor applies a gel to the surface of the area of ​​the leg being examined and passes the sensor over the skin.
4. The image of the vessels is transmitted to the computer screen, based on which the doctor will be able to determine the reasons that caused the narrowing of the vessel.

During differential diagnosis, the specialist may ask the patient to stand up to conduct the examination in a standing position.

The arterial test measures pressure to compare levels in the shoulder and ankle.

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

1. Compression test - the limb is compressed and the blood flow in the compressed vessels is assessed.
2. Valsalva maneuver - inhale while pinching the nose and mouth. During this test, you also need to push a little while trying to exhale. If there is an initial stage of varicose veins, reflux may appear during this test.

In total, the examination of blood vessels takes about 10–15 minutes.

The Center for Innovative Phlebology channel talks about how ultrasound is performed

Pros and cons of the study

Pros of the study:

• the condition 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 its relatively low price;
• there is no harmful effect of ionizing radiation, so the study can be repeated as many times as necessary;
• Ultrasound waves can be reflected from soft tissues, due to which it is possible to obtain a complete picture of the state of the vascular system of the legs.

Disadvantages of the study:

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

Decoding the results

To decipher the results of an ultrasound, you need 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;
• response to compression by the sensor;
• characteristics of the vascular wall (elasticity, stiffness, thickening);
• type of blood flow and its compliance with standards.
• the presence of blood clots in the lumen of blood vessels;
• valve consistency;
• pathological venous reflux;
• the presence of stenosis and its volume as a percentage.
• location of incompetent communicating veins;
• the presence of plaques and their characteristics: mobility, location, uniformity of composition, complications.

To assess blood flow, the following indicators are used:

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

The normal and pathological parameters can be seen in the table:

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

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 public general clinics.

Average prices for the procedure.

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

Content

Foot health is determined by the prevention of pathologies, competent care, and timely diagnosis of diseases. Ultrasound (ultrasound) is often used to examine the vessels of the legs. It helps to identify disorders, differentiate them from others, and keep track of the effectiveness of 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. Using the procedure, accurate information about the condition of the arteries is obtained.

The essence of the study is the penetration of waves of different densities through tissue boundaries. Ultrasound is reflected from tissues and recorded by equipment that visually displays the information. As a result, the doctor receives a picture of the condition of the blood vessels in 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 using ultrasound.

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

Ultrasound can help diagnose diseases at an early stage.

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

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

Ultrasound Dopplerography of blood vessels

Doppler ultrasound easily reveals blood flow disturbances, but it is not always possible to determine 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 performing ultrasound scanning, 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. Background and induced blood flow indicators are recorded in real time, and peripheral circulatory systems are checked. The technique determines the causes of obstruction of the circulatory system and provides information about the valves of the veins.

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

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

When is leg vascular diagnostics needed?

Doppler ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities and other subtypes 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, inability to stand on your feet for a long time.

Detected pathologies

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

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

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

• It is advisable to quit smoking one day before;
• normally within 3 days – from alcohol and medications that affect the state of blood flow;
• do not drink strong tea, coffee and other artificial stimulants;
• It is important to remain calm before carrying out.

How to do a vascular ultrasound

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

1. Strip down to your underwear.
2. Lying on the couch, spread your legs shoulder-width apart.
3. Afterwards, the specialist will apply a gel to the surface of the skin and move a sensor to read the condition of the blood vessels. During the diagnosis, you will need to stand up at the request of the doctor.
4. An ultrasound of the arteries measures blood pressure. During an ultrasound of the deep veins, you additionally need to “strain” and not breathe for some time.

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

The study determines the location and assesses the patency of blood vessels. The doctor judges the functionality of the valves and anomalies affecting blood flow. Researched indicators:

1. ABI – ankle-brachial index. A value from 0.9 to 1.4, with increasing pulsation indicates increased loads. If the rate is low, patency is impaired.
2. Pressure index between the shoulder and finger - the limits are set at 0.8-0.9.
3. The speed of blood flow 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 per second; if it deviates, it is said to be ischemia.
5. The pulsation index of the artery is above 1.8 m in s. At low rates, a narrowing can be judged.
6. Main blood flow for large arteries. With deviations there are narrowings. Turbulent flow indicates stenosis. The causes are thromboembolism and tumor.

Ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities is a very popular procedure, as the number of vascular diseases is growing. If previously they mainly affected older people, now there are quite a lot of young people among the phlebologist’s patients. In order to diagnose pathologies in a timely manner, successfully treat them and prevent serious consequences, it is sometimes necessary to examine organs using ultrasound.

The essence and principle of the technique

Ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities is the most informative and safe modern way of diagnosing dysfunctions of the circulatory system. The essence of the method is that ultrasonic waves emitted by a special sensor penetrate the skin and soft tissues of the body.

Then they pass through the walls of blood vessels and are reflected from moving blood particles (in particular, from red blood cells). The response signal is converted by the device into an image, by decoding which the doctor can draw important conclusions about the state of the circulatory system.

Vascular ultrasound is based on a technique developed by the Austrian scientist Christian Doppler back in the first half of the 19th century. This man had nothing to do with medicine, but she uses his discoveries very actively. Ultrasound examination, the purpose of which is to study the state of the circulatory system, is commonly called Doppler.

What does this method allow you to see?

The standard ultrasound procedure of the leg veins allows you to get an idea only of how the vessels perform their functions. For example, at what speed does blood move through them, does it stagnate, what is the degree of filling of the vessels with it. Ultrasound does not provide direct information about the structural features of veins - only indirect.

Based on the data obtained on blood flow, the specialist draws conclusions about the condition of the venous valves, whether the integrity of the vessel walls is maintained, etc. More accurate information about the structure can be provided by one of the types of ultrasound - three-dimensional scanning.

However, conventional Doppler is usually sufficient to detect (even in the early stages):

• atherosclerosis;
• aneurysm;
• deep vein thrombosis;
• varicose veins;
• phlebitis;
• endarteritis;
• thrombophlebitis;
• Buerger's disease;
• chronic venous insufficiency.

Many of these pathologies are life-threatening if left untreated. Timely diagnosis allows you to take adequate measures and avoid serious consequences. Ultrasound in most cases allows you to determine the presence of diseases even before symptoms appear, which is extremely important. Using a special procedure, the condition of blood vessels is also monitored in patients who have suffered acute thrombosis. This helps prevent relapses of a dangerous disease.

Types of ultrasound examination of blood vessels

The ultrasound method of the veins of the lower extremities has three varieties. Brief description of each of them:

• Ultrasound Dopplerography (two-dimensional Dopplerography) is the standard, oldest method. Provides black and white images. However, it does not provide direct information about the structure of blood vessels. It is the simplest and most affordable. It does not require the use of bulky equipment, so it can be used in cases with bedridden patients.
• Duplex view is two in one: Doppler and scanning. Involves the use of digital equipment. Provides color images. Allows you to obtain information not only about the characteristics of blood flow, but also about the state of the vessels themselves, their structure. It is more accurate and modern than conventional Doppler ultrasound.
• Three-dimensional scanning involves the use of such an ultra-modern method as color mapping. Allows you to obtain a three-dimensional image that informs not only about the main features of blood flow, but also about its intensity, which is indicated using shades.

Despite the fact that conventional Doppler ultrasound is already considered somewhat outdated and its information content is lower compared to more modern types of ultrasound, this method is still widely used today. Although duplex scanning certainly takes the lead.

Who is indicated for ultrasound of the blood vessels of the legs?

The study is carried out on suspicion of the diseases already listed above (varicose veins, thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, atherosclerosis, etc.). The following symptoms may lead to diagnosis:

• spider veins on the legs;
• swollen veins;
• the appearance of pigment spots on the skin of the lower extremities;
• swelling in the legs;
• heaviness in the lower extremities after physical activity;
• ulcerative lesions;
• numbness, goosebumps, unpleasant tingling in the legs;
• pain when walking or at rest;
• cold extremities;
• pale feet;
• blue fingers.

In order to prevent the development of vascular diseases, it is strongly recommended to undergo an ultrasound for people suffering from diabetes mellitus or obesity who have high cholesterol levels in the blood.

Heavy smokers should also be examined regularly, since their bad habit leads to the destruction of blood vessels. The ultrasound procedure is completely safe, so it can be performed frequently. It will not cause harm to health, and the benefits from timely detection of pathology will be great.

Contraindications

Despite the high safety of the method, not all categories of patients are allowed to use it. Thus, contraindications to ultrasound of the vessels of the lower extremities are:

• damage to the skin of the examined area (including burns);
• acute infectious diseases;
• some cardiac pathologies (arrhythmia, myocardial necrosis);
• severe mental disorders;
• bronchial asthma.

In some cases, when the benefits of the study outweigh the possible risks, the doctor decides to conduct an ultrasound. Childhood, pregnancy, and lactation are not included in the list of contraindications. These categories of patients can undergo ultrasound.

Preparation for the procedure and its implementation

No special preparation is required before Doppler ultrasound. The only thing the patient needs to do is perform hygiene procedures. Feet must be clean.

In the ultrasound room, you will have to take off your clothes so that the examiner can gain access to the extremities. The patient remains wearing underwear. It is advisable to bring a towel or diaper with you to lie on. They are not issued in all offices.

Having undressed, the patient lies face up on the couch, and special cuffs are put on the examined limbs to measure blood pressure. The doctor applies a transparent gel to the skin of the leg, which will improve the conductivity of ultrasound beams through soft tissue. Without this tool you will not get a clear image.

Then the process itself begins. The diagnostician moves a special sensor over the examined area, barely touching the skin or pressing harder on it. The doctor may ask the patient to hold their breath and strain very hard.

Duplex scanning is performed in different body positions. In horizontal (lying on your back, stomach, side) or vertical. This is necessary to obtain more accurate information. The doctor guides the process and tells you what position to take. When examining deep veins, as a rule, black and white Doppler ultrasonography or a color version is used.

The duration of the procedure depends on the severity of the condition and the goal. Usually it ranges from 30 minutes to an hour. Ultrasound is a completely painless examination. The only unpleasant sensation may be caused by applying cool gel to the skin. After completing the procedure, the product must be wiped off with a towel brought with you or provided in the office.

About decoding the results

Ultrasound results of the lower extremities are usually ready 15-30 minutes after the examination. The patient is waiting for the transcript in the corridor. The results are reviewed by the attending physician; you should not try to make a diagnosis yourself. From the conclusion you can learn about:

• the presence or absence of blood clots, their size, location, consistency, degree of vessel occlusion;
• dependence of blood flow on respiration;
• thickness of vascular walls;
• blood flow speed;
• whether the type of blood flow in each artery is normal;
• blood pressure in the vessels, etc.

The doctor must compare the results obtained with the results of other examinations. The patient’s complaints, his medical history, and conclusions made during a visual examination are also taken into account. Only after an in-depth analysis of all available information is an accurate diagnosis made and treatment prescribed.

Where is ultrasound done and how much does it cost?

If a doctor gives you a referral for an ultrasound scan, you can undergo the test for free at the clinic. Often you have to sign up in advance or stand in a live queue, since there are usually many applicants.

Those who want to avoid this can go to a private clinic and undergo the procedure for a fee. This service is very common. It is provided in many medical institutions.

The cost of the procedure depends on the type of ultrasound (conventional Doppler, duplex or three-dimensional scanning). Color techniques will be more expensive. A traditional ultrasound can cost 700-800 rubles, and a more modern one can cost up to 8 thousand. The average price in Russian clinics is approximately 2-2.5 thousand rubles.

Ultrasound examination of the vessels of the lower extremities is a highly informative modern method that allows you to identify various diseases at the embryonic stages. It is characterized by high safety and relative availability. It is recommended to use it not only in the presence of symptoms, but also as a preventive measure.

Ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities- a modern and non-invasive way to diagnose the condition of the vascular system of the legs. A phlebologist recommends doing an ultrasound of the veins in the legs if you have complaints of sensory disturbances, burning sensations, fatigue, chills, tired legs, muscle spasms, as well as the presence of dilated veins and spider veins. It is also necessary to undergo a vein examination in case of venous insufficiency, thrombophlebitis, phlebitis, and lameness of unknown origin. Highly recommended for diabetes. An ultrasound of the leg veins can be prescribed based on the results of coronary angiography, ultrasound and x-ray of the heart, a test for venous insufficiency, and x-ray of the lungs.

This examination is carried out without preliminary preparation; there are no restrictions on diet. Ultrasound of a child’s feet is performed without age restrictions. The patient is examined, then the veins are examined while lying on the couch. After this, they are asked to stand up to assess the condition of the vessels of the veins in the legs in an upright position. The duration of the session is 40-50 minutes.

The ultrasound procedure itself has no contraindications, is painless and absolutely safe for the patient, and can be performed repeatedly to monitor the dynamics of treatment. It is not performed only in cases of damaged skin, ulcers, burns, and dermatological diseases.

More details

Price

The cost of ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities in Moscow ranges from 1000 to 8500 rubles. The average price is 2580 rubles.

Where to do an ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities?

Our portal contains all the clinics where you can get an ultrasound of the veins of the lower extremities in Moscow. Choose a clinic that suits your price and location and make an appointment on our website or by phone.

Pathologies of the lower extremities occupy a leading place in pathologies of the musculoskeletal system. This is caused by the structure of the human skeleton, which places significant stress on the legs. Standing work, excessive physical activity, injuries - all this leads to disruption of the function of not only the muscles of the lower extremities, but also the blood vessels.

In order to accurately determine the location of the lesion, a diagnostic technique such as ultrasound scanning is used. It consists of reflecting waves from the tissues of the human body and reproducing them on the screen through a sensor.

This is an absolutely safe method of research, in which there is no need to surgically penetrate organs. In addition, the machines are now in every clinic, which contributes to the widespread use of scanning.

Indications for scanning

The price for such a study is often low, so that the average patient can afford it. Reviews for ultrasound scanning are only positive.

In order to undergo this procedure, you must have a referral from a doctor. This may be a vascular surgeon, phlebologist or general practitioner.

It is not advisable to undergo this procedure on your own without medical advice, since sometimes you can get by with functional tests. Or the lesions will be clear to the doctor without additional diagnostics in the case of a superficial defect.

Ultrasound of the veins and arteries of the lower extremities is prescribed if the patient has such clinical symptoms as:

1. Edema syndrome, which is localized on the feet, ankles or legs. It often appears at the end of the day, in the evening, especially after a hard day with physical activity on the lower extremities.
2. Disruption of nerve conduction in the legs - crawling “goosebumps”, unpleasant tingling, numbness of the feet and legs, changes in temperature sensitivity.
3. Defects of the superficial veins that are visible to the naked eye are dilation of the capillaries of the microvasculature, called spider veins, as well as painful nodes, petechiae and ecchymoses.
4. Change in skin color. This may include paleness, redness, cyanosis, or a purplish tint. Localization also varies - on the feet, legs or thighs.
5. Impaired tissue regeneration, which consists of increased bleeding time and prolonged healing of even minor injuries. This group also includes the appearance of trophic ulcers on the legs, which are difficult to treat.
6. A decrease in the temperature of the skin of the lower extremities, as well as a feeling of fatigue in them even with light exertion.
7. Painful sensations that appear day and night are accompanied by a convulsive syndrome that involves the muscles of the lower leg.

Signs such as decreased hair density and unbearable itching also serve as indications for research.

Types of ultrasound examination

Despite its apparent simplicity, ultrasound of the blood vessels of the legs can be different. In modern medicine, there are three types of scanning – classic, duplex and triplex.

A standard study, or classical two-dimensional diagnostics, can help determine the functional capacity of the blood flow. Its task is to determine the speed of blood flow in the vascular bed.

This method is used most often in comparison with others, since it is the simplest and most convenient to decrypt. It is suitable for examining both veins and arteries. Devices for such scanning are very compact and can be transported from place to place.

The duplex method is a combined method that includes the previous diagnostics and a color mode that allows you to determine not only the speed of blood flow, but also its direction. In order to distinguish them, color scanning was developed - so each direction has its own color.

Triplex scanning is the most progressive among the others, as it is based on the construction of a three-dimensional model of the vessel being examined.

However, the disadvantage of this mode is that it is not possible to determine the direction and speed of blood flow, so it is used only in combination with previous methods.

Preparing for the scan

In order for the study to be as informative as possible, it is necessary to adhere to simple rules. They are easy to perform and do not require special preparation skills, but will ensure scanning accuracy.

First of all, before an ultrasound scan of the arteries, you need to give up bad habits, which can affect the result of the study, which shows the speed of blood flow. Drinking alcohol is prohibited 48 hours before, and smoking is prohibited the day before the test.

72 hours before the scan, you should stop taking medications that affect the blood system and venous outflow in particular. If medications are extremely necessary and refusing them threatens the development of serious complications, then it is worth notifying the diagnostician about this in order to avoid errors when deciphering the study.

Immediately before the examination, it is necessary to perform personal hygiene and remove hair from the examination site.

There are no contraindications to the procedure.

Research methodology

The scan is performed with the patient sitting, lying or standing - it depends on the area that needs to be examined. The doctor may also ask you to change position from time to time to conduct so-called functional tests, during which you can see the operation of the venous valves under different conditions.

In order to ensure the best contact of the sensor with the skin, a special hypoallergenic gel is used, which is applied to the area under study. This will help eliminate errors due to contact with excess hairs.

To start working, the sensor is activated, after which ultrasonic waves enter the tissue. They do not harm the body at all. Reflecting from the walls of blood vessels, the waves hit the sensor, which transfers them to the display. The doctor then makes a transcript.

It is impossible to examine the wall of the vessel itself - it only reflects the waves. Blood flow, as well as pathological formations such as malignant and benign tumors, cholesterol accumulations, thrombus formation and strictures are subject to detection.

In order to get a complete picture, additional research is needed.

What can be revealed by scanning?

When conducting a study, the doctor pays attention to certain parameters that are important in the diagnosis of various diseases.

The ankle-brachial complex is determined by the ratio of the systolic pressure in the left shoulder and leg. With normal functioning of the circulatory system, it is at least 0.9. If pathology is present, the index decreases. A value of 0.3 is critical and indicates that a complication such as a trophic ulcer may develop.

The speed of blood movement through the vessels is also important in diagnosis. The artery of the lower leg has it at least 100 centimeters per second. If this indicator decreases, this indicates the presence of an obstruction in the vessel and the development of ischemia.

The doctor also measures the thickness of the choroid on the inside, which does not exceed 1 millimeter. Its expansion in the artery indicates the presence of atherosclerosis.

When scanning with an ultrasound sensor, the following pathologies can be detected:

• Deep varicose veins of the lower extremities;
• Inflammation of the vascular wall, for example;
• Chronic or acute venous insufficiency;
• The presence of valve defects in the venous system, which may indicate varicose veins;
• Development of thrombosis in the veins or atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries;
• Raynaud's syndrome, or obliterating endarteritis;
• Arterial aneurysms are dissections of the vascular wall, often observed in large arteries, such as the femoral one.

Sometimes it happens that the ultrasound method cannot give an unambiguous answer to a pathology, then the doctor prescribes computed tomography or magnetic resonance therapy - this will help him clarify the diagnosis.

How an ultrasound of the lower extremities is performed is described in the video in this article.