Color duplex Doppler ultrasonography of the upper extremity arteries, bilateral

Color duplex Doppler ultrasound of the upper limb arteries is a non-invasive imaging examination that allows assessment of arterial structure and blood circulation in both arms.

The examination combines B-mode ultrasound, color Doppler imaging, and spectral Doppler analysis to visualize the subclavian, axillary, brachial, radial, and ulnar arteries, depending on the examination protocol.

The method allows assessment of arterial patency, blood flow direction and velocity, as well as detection of changes that may indicate arterial narrowing, obstruction, or compression.

Purpose of the Examination

The examination helps identify and assess arterial stenoses, occlusions, thromboses, and other vascular abnormalities that may affect blood circulation in the upper limbs.

It may also be used to evaluate suspected arterial thoracic outlet syndrome, investigate post-traumatic vascular injuries, and monitor patients following revascularization procedures, including arterial bypass surgery or angioplasty.

Indications

• Pain in the arms or hands, particularly during physical activity.
• Cold sensation, paleness, or changes in skin color of the hands and fingers.
• Numbness, tingling, or muscle weakness when a vascular cause is suspected.
• Diminished arterial pulse or significant differences in blood pressure between the arms.
• Suspected arterial stenosis, thrombosis, or occlusion.
• Suspected arterial compression associated with thoracic outlet syndrome.
• Assessment of arterial circulation following trauma.
• Follow-up after vascular interventions, including arterial bypass surgery, angioplasty, or stent placement.

Procedure

• The patient is positioned comfortably, with the arms exposed.
• Ultrasound gel is applied to the skin, and the transducer is moved along the course of the arteries.
• Ultrasound images and blood flow characteristics are assessed.
• Examination duration: 15–30 minutes.

Sources:

https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/doppler-ultrasound/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK570577/
https://www.portailvasculaire.fr/sites/default/files/docs/2019_esvm_aomi_recommandations.pdf
https://esvs.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/PAD-2024-Guidelines.pdf
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576430/
https://sonographictendencies.com/2021/11/10/arterial-duplex-doppler-sonography-of-the-upper-extremities/