CV Doppler (Cardiovascular Doppler)

Doctors recommend a cardiovascular doppler ultrasound when they suspect heart or blood flow problems. It helps find the cause of symptoms and checks how serious the condition is.

You may need this test if you have:

• Chest pain or pressure
• Shortness of breath
• Dizziness or fainting
• Swelling in legs or feet
• High blood pressure
• Irregular heartbeat
• History of heart disease or stroke

Conditions it helps diagnose:

• Heart valve disease using cardiac valve doppler
• Coronary artery disease
• Congenital heart problems (present since birth)
• Narrowed arteries using arterial Doppler
• Blood clots using venous doppler
• Neck artery blockage using Carotid Colour Doppler

This test is also useful after heart surgery or procedures to check recovery and blood flow improvement.

The doppler ultrasound test is simple and painless. Here is what usually happens:

1. You lie comfortably on a bed.
2. A clear gel is applied to the chest or neck area.
3. A small device (probe) is moved over the skin.
4. The machine shows images and blood flow colours on a screen.
5. You may hear whooshing sounds – this is the blood flow.

In colour doppler, blood flow is shown in red and blue colours, making it easier to understand.

Duration of the test

• It usually takes 30 to 45 minutes
• Some detailed heart tests may take up to 1 hour

Preparation before the test

• Usually no special preparation is needed
• Wear comfortable clothes
• Avoid heavy meals before the test (if advised)
• Bring previous reports if available

The test is safe for all age groups, including elderly patients.

Normal results mean:

• Blood is flowing smoothly
• Heart valves are opening and closing properly
• No blockage or narrowing in blood vessels
• Heart pumping strength is normal

Abnormal results may show:

• Slow or reduced blood flow
• Narrowed or blocked arteries
• Blood flowing backward through valves
• Weak heart muscles
• Clots in veins or arteries

Doctors study these results carefully and explain them in simple terms. Based on the findings, they may suggest medicines, lifestyle changes, or further tests.

Depending on your condition, the doctor may advise different doppler studies:

• Doppler echocardiography: – It is used to check heart chambers and valves. 
• Colour doppler cardiac – It shows blood flow using colour.
• Carotid Color Doppler – It helps to check blood flow to the brain
• Doppler arterial – It checks blood flow in arteries.
• Venous doppler – It checks veins for clots.
• Heart blood flow ultrasound – It checks heart pumping and flow.

BM Birla Heart Hospital, Kolkata, is known for trusted heart care and advanced diagnostic services. When it comes to cardiovascular doppler ultrasound, the hospital offers accurate testing with patient comfort as a priority.

• Experienced heart specialists you can trust – Our cardiologists have years of experience and carefully review your Doppler results to guide the right treatment for you.

• Advanced ultrasound technology for accurate results – We use modern Doppler ultrasound equipment to clearly assess blood flow while keeping the test safe and painless.

• Comprehensive cardiac care under one roof – From diagnosis to treatment and follow-up, all your heart care needs are taken care of at one trusted hospital.

• Clear guidance and personal attention – Our doctors and staff take time to explain the test process and results in simple terms, so you feel informed and confident.

• Comfort-focused and patient-friendly testing – The procedure is quick, painless, and designed to keep you relaxed throughout.