[Diagnosis using ultrasound in peripheral arterial disorders: possibilities and limitations]

Ultrasound plays an increasingly important role in investigating peripheral vascular disease. Two major approaches, the Doppler technique and the (B-mode) imaging technique, are routinely used. Duplex scanning combines the two ultrasonic techniques taking advantage of both the hemodynamic and anatomic data that can be obtained. The simple conventional Doppler devices may be used to measure limb blood pressure at rest and after exercise and to assess velocity patterns. Recent advances in duplex technology allow non-invasive assessment of the vascular tree from the aorta to below the knee. Compared with arteriography duplex scanning has a sensitivity of 96% and a specificity of 81%. In selected cases duplex scanning can safely and reliably replace arteriography.