Diagnostic service

Color Doppler

Color Doppler adds a visual display of blood-flow information to an ultrasound examination.

Ultrasound monitor showing a colour Doppler blood-flow image.

About this examination

What the colour display shows

Doppler ultrasound measures blood movement within vessels. The scanner can present flow information as colour on the ultrasound image; a clinician interprets it as part of the full examination.

The examination area is specified by the request

Color Doppler is a technique used within ultrasound examinations. The body area and clinical purpose depend on the clinician’s request.

Before you visit

Contact the centre to confirm the requested examination area, availability, referral requirements and any preparation instructions before your visit.

Further information

See NHS patient information about ultrasound blood-flow scans. This page is a general summary, not personal medical advice. Follow your clinician’s advice.

Common questions

Questions about Color Doppler.

General answers based on patient guidance. Your clinician or imaging team can confirm what applies to your examination.

Color Doppler

What does a Color Doppler scan check?

It uses ultrasound and the Doppler effect to assess blood movement through vessels. Flow may appear as colour or waveforms on the screen, which a trained professional interprets.

What happens during a Color Doppler scan?

The operator applies gel and moves an ultrasound probe over the requested area. Depending on the examination, you may hear a soft “whoosh” sound representing blood flow.

Do I need to prepare for a Color Doppler scan?

Instructions depend on the area and type of scan. Some blood-flow ultrasound examinations need no special preparation, but confirm the instructions for your own appointment.

Patient information: University Hospitals of Leicester patient leaflet

Please note: Preparation and examination details depend on the specific request. Follow the instructions given for your appointment; these answers are not personal medical advice.

Next step

Ask the centre about your visit.

Your appointment request is confirmed only when the centre replies.

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