Mesenteric Artery Doppler Study

Mesenteric Artery Doppler Ultrasound

Mesenteric artery stenosis poses a critical risk to organs due to the lack of proper circulation and blood flow. Diagnosing this condition early can help prevent patients from enduring the grave consequences of mesenteric artery stenosis.

This test is useful in identifying conditions such as plaque, stenosis, or embolic occlusions. Embolic occlusions can block the blood supply to certain parts of the body, such as the spleen, sections of the stomach and liver, or the entire intestinal system. This test is non-invasive and uses a gel, sound waves, and a small probe to produce an image of the mesenteric arteries on the screen. No needles, dyes, or radiation is required.

The Doppler ultrasound technology reflects high-frequency sound waves from red blood cells to detect activity and blood flow. It can recognize conditions like arterial stenosis or occlusion in the superior mesenteric artery and diseases like atherosclerosis or arterial thromboembolic disease.

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FAQs

Why Is It Done?

A mesenteric artery ultrasound evaluates the narrowing areas or blockages in the mesenteric arteries to determine if they are properly conducting their primary function of supplying blood to the abdominal organs.

How Is It Performed?

• Before the exam begins, you will be asked to give a brief history concerning the exam.
• Then, you shall need to lie on your back.
• The person who conducts the exam will then apply a gel to the abdomen area, which is being evaluated. The examiner will then slide an ultrasound probe over your abdomen, generating an image. Remember that you should remain still while the examiner does this to get clearer images. The examiner may also ask you to roll on your side or hold your breath to obtain better images.
• You may hear the sound of your blood flowing during the test. Please understand this is perfectly normal, and there is no need to panic.
• Once the test is over, you can wipe off any excess gel on your abdomen and go home.
• A physician will soon interpret your test results. Your doctor will then receive a report and discuss the next course of action with you after evaluating the results.

How Long Will It Take to Complete the Exam?

This test takes nearly one hour to complete.

How to Prepare for the Test?

Ensure you do not eat, drink, chew gum, or smoke ten hours before the exam. This is because doing so may cause gas formation, which may hinder a smooth exam. Also, avoid foods that cause you gas trouble the day before the exam. You are allowed to take your medications as prescribed. However, make sure you consume as little water as possible. This is required to get a clearer picture of your abdomen during the exam.