Indications:
- Exercise related limb pain in the absence of significant arterial pathology
- Unexplained swelling/oedema in the lower limb/ankles, in the absence of significant venous pathology
- Follow up for known popliteal entrapment/compartment syndrome
- Surveillance post intervention
Contraindications and limitations:
- Extreme leg girth (obesity, excessive musculature or extreme oedema)
- Casts or dressings that cannot be removed
Patient preparation:
- On the day of the ultrasound, refrain from applying oils or moisturisers to the lower limb
PLEASE BRING RELEVANT, PREVIOUS DIAGNOSTIC REPORTS AND ULTRASOUND WORKSHEETS TO YOUR ULTRASOUND AND DOCTORS APPOINTMENT
What to wear:
Loose-fitting clothes, for example; elasticated skirt/pants/shorts.
Ultrasound study technique:
This is a non-invasive diagnostic study. The patient will lie on a flat bed, prone (on their front) with their feet over the bottom edge of the bed. Ultrasound gel will be applied to the popliteal fossa (behind the knee) and lower limb. An ultrasound probe will be used to locate the popliteal artery. The popliteal artery will be assessed, segmentally, with ultrasound imaging, colour Doppler and Doppler waveform velocities, at rest. This will then be repeated, 2 or 3 times per limb, during provocative manoeuvres. Images will be obtained, the results documented on a worksheet.
Ultrasound study time:
30 minutes per leg
Results:
A worksheet can be available, if requested. A formal written report will be available within 24 to 48 hours, following the ultrasound examination, Monday to Friday. If the ultrasound findings demonstrate pathology, which may require urgent attention, the referring Doctor will be notified ASAP following the completion of the ultrasound.