Duplex Ultrasound Assessment

Duplex ultrasound assessment

Duplex ultrasound is a non-invasive and painless procedure used to determine the cause of your varicose veins. It provides us with a full and accurate 'map' of your veins which then helps us create a treatment plan suited to your specific needs.

How duplex ultrasound works

We use ‘duplex’ ultrasound technology for mapping your veins. This involves a combination of two different sound-imaging techniques (Doppler and B-mode) to get the fullest possible image of the vein. This tool gives us a live image of any enlarged vein (so we can map in detail how they are laid out), which means that we can also assess the direction and speed of the blood moving through it.

Are varicose veins dangerous?

As well as helping us determine the cause of your varicose veins and the best course of action, these scans allow us to check for any signs of clotting (Deep Vein Thrombosis or other abnormalities in your deep veins).
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From the duplex ultrasound during your first diagnostic assessment with us, all the way to your follow-up appointment when we check that the treated veins are fully closed, we always strictly follow best practice guidelines.

What to expect

All our duplex ultrasound scans are conducted by accredited clinical vascular scientists with decades of experience in diagnosing vascular disorders in the UK and beyond.
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The procedure is performed with you standing, as this helps the veins become more visible. Once in the scan room at our Varicose veins treatment clinics, you'll be asked to remove your shoes, your trousers or skirt, and any socks or tights. Your vascular scientist will then apply a cool gel to your legs before running an ultrasound wand over them, from the groin to the ankle.
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The clinician will then need to apply some pressure to your calf muscles to observe how the veins respond when this pressure is released. However, the entire process should be painless.

Diagnostic assessment cost

The diagnostic assessment is a crucial step in helping us understand what your needs are and which treatment options would be best suited. Therefore, the cost of this appointment is included in your treatment package.
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To learn more about pricing and plans, click here for varicose vein treatment costs and here for spider vein treatment costs.

What comes next

Once this initial examination is complete, we will have an accurate picture of the damaged veins in your lower extremities. Assuming treatment is recommended for your varicose veins, the scan will allow for your doctor to decide whether Sclerotherapy or Radiofrequency Ablation is the right treatment for you.

Still not sure whether to get a diagnostic assessment?

Are you showing early signs of varicose veins? Or is this an issue you’ve lived with for months or years, but never sought guidance on? We are here to help. Get in touch with us and get the expert assessment you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who should perform the duplex ultrasound scan?

Just like any other stage of our treatment pathway, only the most qualified specialists are involved in this process. Our expert team is led by Fabrizio D’Abate, currently Senior Vascular Sonographer at St George’s Hospital in London. Fabrizio is an accredited Clinical Vascular Scientist and was awarded the 2015 Ann Donald Award for Scientist of the Year; by The Society for Vascular Technology for Great Britain and Ireland.

What does a diagnostic assessment involve?

During your initial appointment, you’ll meet one of our specialist vascular sonographers who will conduct the ultrasound assessment. Based on our findings, we will inform you if you indeed need treatment and, if so, we will explain what your options are.

Do I need a diagnostic assessment if I just have spider/thread veins?

Yes. As well as helping us find the best treatment for you, we use a duplex ultrasound scan to determine if there are any underlying issues causing your veins to become enlarged and visible.