Duplex ultrasound is, essentially, a sophisticated imaging method that marries standard ultrasound with Doppler technology, letting clinicians not only see the physical structure of blood vessels but also monitor the velocity and direction of blood flow. This combo is pretty powerful—it enables detection of blockages, narrowing, or other vascular oddities in both peripheral and central vessels.
Clinically, duplex ultrasound is the go-to choice for diagnosing conditions like peripheral artery disease (PAD), deep vein thrombosis (DVT), venous insufficiency, and aneurysms. The test itself is non-invasive, painless, and doesn’t use radiation, which makes it especially appealing as a front-line diagnostic tool. Early identification of vascular issues with duplex ultrasound can facilitate timely intervention, improve circulation, prevent serious complications, and generally promote long-term vascular health.