There are two Peripheral Venous Studies that may be performed.
Venous Duplex
Also known as Venous Doppler or DVT study, this test uses an ultrasound machine to visualize the veins in a patient's upper or lower extremities. An ultrasonic gel is applied to the skin and a transducer is moved over the skin to image the venous. As the technician is scanning down the leg, gentle pressure will be applied to the leg to compress the vein. Color and Doppler are used to check blood flow through the vein being imaged; at this time, the technician will also apply gentle pressure below and above the site of the transducer to stimulate blood flow through the vein.
Venous Reflux Study
This study is used in conjunction with the venous duplex exam when a patient's physician suspects that the patient's veins are allowing blood to flow the wrong way. After performing the venous duplex, the technician will ask the patient to stand for a few minutes. While the patient is standing, the technician will use color and doppler to check the blood flow through the veins. The technician will also apply gentle pressure below and above the transducer site to stimulate blood flow. If the patient is unable to stand, the exam table will be tilted so the patient is in a more vertical position.