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What to Expect During a Deep Vein Thrombosis Ultrasound Scan

Deep Vein Thrombosis Ultrasound Scan Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition that can lead to serious complications. ...

Deep Vein Thrombosis Ultrasound Scan

What to Expect During a Deep Vein Thrombosis Ultrasound Scan

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) is a serious medical condition that can lead to serious complications. To diagnose DVT, an ultrasound scan is typically performed. If you’re scheduled for a DVT ultrasound scan, you may be feeling anxious about what to expect. This guide provides an easy-to-follow, step-by-step guide to make your DVT Ultrasound scan a little easier to manage.

Step 1: Preparation

Before your DVT Ultrasound scan, your doctor will likely ask you to refrain from eating or drinking for several hours prior to the scan. This is so that your stomach is empty during the scan. Additionally, you may be asked to remove any jewelry or other metal objects you may be wearing.

Step 2: Positioning

During the scan, you will be asked to lie on your back on an examination table. Depending on the area of your body that is being scanned, you may be asked to lie on your side or stomach.

Step 3: Application of Gel

A special gel, called ultrasound gel, will be applied to your skin. This gel helps transmit the sound waves from the transducer to the area of your body being scanned. It will feel cool and wet.

What to Expect During a Deep Vein Thrombosis Ultrasound Scan

Step 4: Transducer Placement

The ultrasound transducer will then be moved over the area of your body being scanned. This transducer will emit sound waves that will help create an image of the area being scanned.

Step 5: Image Capture

The ultrasound images will be captured and stored on a computer. During the scan, your doctor may ask you to hold your breath or move your body to help capture better images.

Conclusion

A DVT ultrasound scan is a relatively quick and painless procedure. The whole process typically takes less than 45 minutes. During the scan, it is important to follow your doctor’s instructions to ensure the best possible images are captured.

What to Expect During a Deep Vein Thrombosis Ultrasound Scan

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Does a DVT ultrasound scan hurt?
    No, a DVT ultrasound scan does not hurt. The only sensation you may feel is the ultrasound gel, which will feel cool and wet.
  2. How long does a DVT ultrasound scan take?
    A DVT ultrasound scan typically takes less than 45 minutes.
  3. What should I do before a DVT ultrasound scan?
    Before a DVT ultrasound scan, your doctor may ask you to refrain from eating or drinking for several hours prior to the scan and to remove any jewelry or metal objects you may be wearing.
  4. What happens during a DVT ultrasound scan?
    During a DVT ultrasound scan, you will be asked to lie on an examination table and a special gel will be applied to your skin. The ultrasound transducer will be moved over the area of your body being scanned, and images will be captured and stored on a computer.
  5. How accurate is a DVT ultrasound scan?
    A DVT ultrasound scan is a very accurate diagnostic tool, and is typically used to confirm a diagnosis of DVT.