Doppler sonography

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Doppler sonography is an ultrasound examination that measures the speed of blood flow. It is also known as Doppler ultrasound and is particularly important in the diagnosis of vascular constrictions. Read everything about Doppler sonography, how it is used and what it reveals here!

When is Doppler sonography used?

Doppler sonography is used as a diagnostic tool in many medical fields. It is often used in vascular medicine to reveal constrictions, bulges or occlusions. In neurology, doctors use them to examine cerebral blood flow disorders and strokes, recurring unclear headaches, ringing in the ears, dizziness and many other clinical pictures. Doppler ultrasound is also very important during pregnancy, for example in:

• pregnancy-related high blood pressure and the symptoms that result from it
• (Preeclampsia, eclamsia, HELLP syndrome)
• Examination of the heart function of the fetus
• Suspected child heart defects
• Suspected growth disorders or malformations in the child
• History of miscarriage
• Twins, triplets, and other multiple pregnancies

How does Doppler sonography work?

In contrast to conventional ultrasound, the Doppler examination shows not only the organ structures but also the blood flow within the vessels: flowing liquids reflect the sound waves in such a way that the frequency of the ultrasound waves changes. This is comparable to the apparently changing pitch (frequency) of the siren of a fast passing ambulance (Doppler effect).

The Doppler ultrasound device calculates the flow velocity from the change in frequency and thus allows the doctor to draw conclusions about the cross-section or the nature of the blood vessels or organs being examined.

Doppler sonography and duplex sonography: what's the difference?

With simple Doppler sonography, the doctor can see the blood flow in the vessel. Duplex sonography, on the other hand, also enables the vessel wall itself and the course of the blood vessel to be assessed. It combines, so to speak, the classic ultrasound with Doppler sonography and thus enables a more precise diagnosis.

What are the risks of duplex and Doppler sonography?

As with all other ultrasound procedures, duplex and Doppler sonography are safe and painless examination methods. The patient is not exposed to radiation such as X-rays or computed tomography.

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