A Transcranial Doppler is a safe, painless, non-invasive test using ultrasound to evaluate blood flow in and around the brain. Direction and speed of blood flow inside the brain are examined to help in diagnosing neurological conditions that can be affected by blood flow in the brain.
A trained and certified ultrasound technician conducts the test with a small ultrasound device. You will be asked to sit in a chair and a conductive gel will be applied to your temples, the base of your skull, and the back of your neck. Using the ultrasound device, the technician will gently press and move against the three areas to examine blood flow.
Discomfort should not be felt during the procedure, which typically lasts about 15 minutes. If you do experience any pain or discomfort, please inform the technician.
Once the test is completed the technician will provide you with towels to wipe off any remaining gel.
The data recorded is sent to a neurologist for interpretation. Results will be available one week after the test is completed and will be reviewed at your next follow up visit. If there is an abnormality seen on your test you will be informed prior to your next appointment.
Wear a comfortable shirt with no collar or a shirt with an open collar.