Echo-Doppler, also known as Doppler, is an ultrasound exam that allows blood vessels to be assessed and blood flow to be studied in real time, using Doppler technology.
At NRD, in Lisbon, you can have Echo-Doppler exams performed in a clinical setting specialised in diagnostic imaging, with suitable technology for assessing arterial and venous circulation in different regions of the body.
What is it and what is it used for?
Echo-Doppler is an ultrasound method that allows blood vessels to be assessed while also determining their blood flow using the Doppler effect.
This exam has several applications in the study of the circulatory system, both arterial and venous. It can be used to assess vessels in the neck, abdomen, upper limbs and lower limbs, making it possible to study changes in blood flow, narrowing, obstructions, atheromatous plaques or venous insufficiency.
It is particularly relevant for assessing carotid blood flow, arterial circulation in the lower limbs, abdominal vessels and venous changes in the lower limbs.
Types of Echo-Doppler
At NRD, different Echo-Doppler exams can be performed, depending on the region of the body and the type of circulation to be assessed.
Carotid Echo-Doppler
Carotid Echo-Doppler assesses the arterial vessels of the neck, especially the carotid and vertebral arteries. It is used to study changes such as atheromatous plaques, arterial narrowing or changes in blood flow with vascular and cerebrovascular relevance.
Arterial Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs
Arterial Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs assesses arterial circulation in the legs. It is particularly useful for studying atheromatous plaques, vascular calcifications, narrowing of the arteries, obstructions or peripheral arterial disease.
Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs
Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs assesses venous circulation in the legs. It is often used to study varicose veins, venous insufficiency, venous reflux, swelling of the lower limbs or suspected deep vein thrombosis.
What is the price of Echo-Doppler / Doppler?
The price of Echo-Doppler / Doppler may vary depending on the type of exam performed, the area of the body assessed and the agreement, subsystem, insurance or health plan used.
At NRD, this exam can be performed under different agreements and conventions:
- SNS / ARS: the patient pays no fee if the exam is performed at NRD with a prescription from the Health Centre;
- ADSE: the patient only pays the co-payment, usually €15;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, and other insurance companies;
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Continente Wells, and other health plans.
There is also a special price list for clinics with an agreement.
How is it performed?
The way an Echo-Doppler exam is performed depends on the area of the body being assessed. In general, you may be asked to remove or move clothing away from the region to be examined and to lie down on the examination couch.
A gel is applied directly to the skin or to the ultrasound probe to facilitate contact and improve image quality. The healthcare professional then moves the probe over the area being studied, observing the blood vessels and assessing blood flow using Doppler technology.
During the exam, you may need to change position slightly, turn your head or cooperate with small manoeuvres, depending on the type of assessment required.
The exam is painless, does not use radiation and, once completed, you can resume your usual routine.
What does it detect?
Echo-Doppler / Doppler can assess different changes in arterial and venous circulation, including:
- changes in blood flow;
- narrowing of the vessels, also known as stenosis;
- arterial or venous obstructions;
- atheromatous plaques or atherosclerotic plaques;
- vascular calcifications;
- venous insufficiency;
- varicose veins and venous reflux;
- suspected venous thrombosis;
- signs of peripheral arterial disease;
- vascular changes that may require monitoring or treatment.
The information obtained helps the doctor understand whether there is any impairment of circulation and guide the diagnosis, follow-up or need for appropriate treatment.
In which cases is it indicated?
Echo-Doppler may be indicated when there are symptoms or signs suggesting changes in blood circulation, whether arterial or venous.
It is often recommended in situations such as:
- pain, heaviness or tiredness in the legs;
- swelling of the lower limbs;
- visible varicose veins;
- suspected venous thrombosis;
- leg pain when walking that improves with rest;
- cold feet or changes in skin colour;
- slow-healing wounds;
- suspected peripheral arterial disease;
- carotid bruit detected by the doctor;
- history of stroke or transient ischaemic attack;
- cardiovascular risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol or smoking;
- follow-up of known vascular changes;
- assessment before or after vascular treatments.
The exam should be performed when indicated by the doctor, according to the symptoms, clinical history and purpose of the assessment.
Preparation for Echo-Doppler / Doppler
Preparation for Echo-Doppler depends on the area of the body to be examined. In most cases, it is a simple, non-invasive exam that does not require any special preparation. However, some recommendations can make the exam easier to perform.
| Topic | Recommendation |
| Exam prescription | You should bring the exam prescription in paper format, whenever applicable. |
| Fasting | For most Echo-Doppler exams, fasting is not required. If any specific preparation is needed, you will be informed when booking. |
| Clothing | Comfortable clothing that is easy to move away or remove from the area to be examined is recommended. |
| Creams or lotions | Whenever possible, avoid applying creams, oils or lotions to the region being assessed on the day of the exam. |
| Accessories | For exams performed on the neck, such as Carotid Echo-Doppler, you should avoid necklaces or accessories around the neck area. |
| Previous exams | You should bring any relevant previous exams, if available. |
| Usual medication | You should not stop taking your usual medication, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. |
| Early arrival | In general, you should arrive around 15 minutes before the scheduled time, unless different instructions are given when booking. |
| After the exam | You can resume your usual routine, with no need for special care. |
NRD will provide you with all the necessary instructions when booking your exam.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the results of the Echo-Doppler within 7 days after the exam, by email or on paper at the clinic.
On the day of the exam, you will be given the necessary information about how to collect or receive your results.
Where to do it?
Echo-Doppler / Doppler can be done at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070-060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)