Liver Doppler Ultrasound

The liver Doppler ultrasound assesses the blood that flows into the liver through the portal veins and the blood that flows out of the liver through the hepatic veins which empty into the heart.

If you have certain liver conditions, such as hepatitis or cirrhosis, or if your blood tests show elevation of certain liver enzymes, your doctor may request this exam to check the function of the liver tissue. Liver Doppler is also used to evaluate the liver on a regular basis in people who have had a liver transplant.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• Please arrive 15 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time to check in with reception.
• Bring photo identification and your provincial health card.
• Take all prescribed medications as directed.
• Wear comfortable clothes.
• Please do not bring children who require supervision.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

• Your sonographer will ask you to expose your abdomen to scan the area.
• A warm, non-scented, hypo-allergenic, water-based ultrasound gel will be applied to your abdomen.
• The sonographer will move the transducer (probe) around the front and side of your abdomen and ribcage to gather images of your organs.
• You will hear what sounds like your heartbeat throughout the test while your sonographer checks the many blood vessels of the liver.
• The sonographer will ask you to perform various breathing techniques that aid in obtaining the best images of your organs.
• You may be asked to lie on your side, sit, or stand to bring your organs into a better position.
• You may experience mild to moderate pressure while the sonographer takes the images.
• The radiologist may come into the scan room after your exam to speak to you about your results. You will then be free to leave.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor by the next business day.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

This exam is covered under your Alberta Health Care Plan. It is not currently offered at our Saskatchewan clinics.