Venous Doppler Ultrasound (DVT scan)

Venous Doppler ultrasound is a specialized scan examining blood flow in your leg veins to detect blood clots (DVT – Deep Vein Thrombosis). This urgent diagnostic test uses colour Doppler technology to visualize blood flow and identify any blockages in the deep veins.

DVT is a potentially serious condition requiring prompt diagnosis and treatment. Common symptoms include leg pain, swelling, warmth, redness, or heaviness in the calf or thigh. Risk factors include recent surgery, long flights, immobility, pregnancy, or blood clotting disorders.

Our expert radiologists provide immediate assessment with results provided promptly. If DVT is detected, we provide an urgent report for your GP or consultant for immediate treatment.

Comprehensive Examination:

• Complete leg vein mapping (both legs if needed)
• Deep veins: Common femoral, superficial femoral, popliteal, tibial
• Superficial veins check
• Colour Doppler flow visualization
• Compression testing at multiple points
• Comparison of both legs
• Immediate interpretation
• Written report

DVT Symptoms Requiring Urgent Scan:

•  Sudden calf pain and swelling (most common)
•  Leg feels warm to touch
•  Redness or skin discoloration (often in calf)
•  Swelling in one leg only (not both)
•  Heavy, aching sensation in leg
•  Tender area along vein path
•  Enlarged superficial veins

Major Risk Factors:

• Recent surgery (especially hip/knee replacement, abdominal)
• Prolonged immobility (bed rest, long flights >4 hours, car journeys)
• Pregnancy and postpartum (up to 6 weeks after delivery)
• Oral contraceptives or HRT (hormone replacement therapy)
• Cancer or active cancer treatment
• Previous DVT or PE (pulmonary embolism)
• Family history of blood clots
• Thrombophilia (inherited clotting disorder)
• Recent leg injury or fracture
• Obesity (BMI >30)
• Smoking
• Age over 60
• Varicose veins

Why DVT is Dangerous: Untreated DVT can lead to:

• Pulmonary embolism (PE): Blood clot travels to lungs (life-threatening)
• Post-thrombotic syndrome: Chronic leg swelling, pain, skin changes
• Venous ulcers: Skin breakdown and non-healing wounds
• Chronic venous insufficiency: Long-term circulation problems

The Scan Technique:

• Gentle compression of veins at multiple levels
• Colour Doppler shows blood flow direction
• Non-compressible vein = possible clot
• Absent flow = confirmed clot
• Takes 20-30 minutes
• Completely painless
• No injections or contrast needed

Results:

• Negative (no DVT): Reassuring, alternative diagnosis considered
• Positive (DVT detected): Urgent treatment initiated
  • Location of clot documented (calf, thigh, groin)
  • Extent measured
  • Acute vs chronic determined
  • Immediate report to referring doctor

Urgent Referral: If DVT confirmed:

• Report to hospital or GP
• Anticoagulation treatment started immediately
• Admission may be needed for extensive clots
• Follow-up imaging arranged

Location: Brentwood clinic serving Chelmsford, Romford, Basildon, and all Essex