What is Abdominal Color Doppler Ultrasound?
Abdominal Color Doppler ultrasound is an imaging method that examines the organs and blood vessels within the abdominal cavity, as well as the blood circulation of the internal organs. The technique is based on the physical law known as the Doppler Effect, which describes the relationship between ultrasonic waves and the movement of objects, depending on the direction of their movement. Based on these parameters, we can measure the volumes and speeds of blood flow from the examined vessels and organs. Renal artery Doppler examination is an integral part of the diagnosis and treatment of all patients with high blood pressure. It can evaluate atherosclerosis or arterial narrowing, monitor the dynamics of disease progression, and detect abdominal aneurysms, a highly dangerous condition.
This technique also allows for the study of venous circulation, or the return of blood to the heart through the veins. Additionally, Color Doppler provides crucial information regarding liver cirrhosis, tumors in the abdominal cavity, and other pathological processes. It is possible to evaluate and continuously monitor blood flow from transplanted organs (kidney, liver, etc.) with the help of Color Doppler. As with basic abdominal ultrasounds, the results depend heavily on the quality of the ultrasound device used for the examination and the experience and expertise of the doctor conducting the procedure.
How is Abdominal Doppler Ultrasound Performed?
The patient lies on a stretcher in a supine position, and gel is applied to the abdominal area. The abdominal organs are examined via an ultrasound probe. The sound signals from the ultrasound probe are converted into images on the device. The radiologist examines and evaluates these images in detail. The patient does not experience any pain or discomfort during the procedure.
The liver, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, midline vascular structures, kidneys, and organs in the lower abdomen such as the uterus, ovaries, prostate, and seminal vesicles are evaluated in detail. Many patients who want to undergo this examination are curious about what it is and how it is performed.
Abdominal Doppler is used to diagnose and monitor many health conditions. It allows for the examination of multiple organs and takes about 20-25 minutes to complete. Before the procedure, a fasting period of several hours is required.
Why is Abdominal Doppler Ultrasound Performed?
The liver, spleen, extrahepatic portal venous system, upper abdominal aorta, celiac and superior mesenteric arteries, renal vessels, uterus, ovaries, and prostate are evaluated.
One of the primary indications for upper abdominal Color Doppler imaging is the evaluation of portal hypertension. It is used to assess portal venous thrombosis, portocaval and splenorenal anastomoses, suspected hepatic venous thrombosis, and preoperative and postoperative imaging in liver transplant recipients.
A normal portal vein shows hepatopetal flow with speeds ranging from 10 to 30 cm/s. In severe portal hypertension, portal vein flow may reverse. The prevalence of portal vein thrombosis in patients with cirrhosis and gastrointestinal bleeding is around 5%.
It is important to evaluate the proximal celiac and superior mesenteric arteries when mesenteric insufficiency is suspected.
Hypertension is becoming increasingly common. In most patients, no specific cause of hypertension is found, and they are considered to have essential hypertension. Hypertension caused by renovascular disease or renal artery stenosis is rare, accounting for less than 1% to 3% of all cases.
However, renovascular hypertension is the most common type of hypertension that can be surgically treated, and untreated, it can lead to kidney failure. Decreased renal perfusion has been shown to activate the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, which ultimately triggers the development of hypertension.
Color Doppler ultrasound is the first-line imaging method for evaluating individuals suspected of having RVH (renovascular hypertension).
Abdominal Doppler Ultrasound Prices 2026
In Istanbul, the prices of abdominal Color Doppler ultrasound vary from region to region, and even between different institutions within the same area. For more information on the prices of abdominal Color Doppler ultrasound, you can call 02126321059.