Private DVT Doppler Ultrasound Scan in London urgent venous duplex scan for suspected deep vein thrombosis, calf pain and one-sided swelling

A DVT Doppler ultrasound scan, also called a venous duplex ultrasound, uses ultrasound and Doppler flow assessment to look for blood clots in the deep veins of the leg or arm. It is non-invasive, radiation-free and does not require injections.

The scan is priced from £249 for one limb and £449 for both limbs. The fee includes the ultrasound scan, same-day verbal findings and a written report.

No GP referral is required. You can self-refer directly, especially if symptoms are worrying and you need fast private assessment.

Consider urgent assessment if you have one-sided calf or thigh pain, swelling, warmth, redness, tenderness, heaviness, recent surgery, long-haul travel, immobility, pregnancy or postpartum clotting risk, cancer history or previous DVT.

Common symptoms include swelling in one leg or arm, calf pain, thigh pain, warmth, redness, visible vein prominence, tenderness along the vein, heaviness or symptoms that worsen after immobility.

If you have chest pain, sudden breathlessness, coughing blood, collapse, severe dizziness or symptoms that could suggest pulmonary embolism, call 999 or attend emergency care immediately. A private ultrasound appointment should not delay emergency treatment.

Yes. Upper-limb DVT can occur, although it is less common than leg DVT. It may be associated with swelling, pain, venous lines, pacemaker wires, thrombophilia, cancer history or recent trauma.

A one-limb scan assesses one symptomatic leg or arm. A both-limbs scan assesses both legs or both arms and is useful when symptoms are bilateral, risk is high or a clinician has requested bilateral venous assessment.

The scan commonly assesses the common femoral, femoral, profunda femoris, popliteal, posterior tibial, peroneal and calf veins, with superficial venous structures reviewed where relevant.

Yes, calf veins can be assessed where technically possible. Calf-vein assessment can be more challenging in some patients, for example with swelling, body habitus or limited mobility.

Yes. Although the priority is to exclude deep vein thrombosis, ultrasound may also identify superficial thrombophlebitis, varicose vein clot, Baker’s cyst, haematoma or other visible causes of swelling.

The scan is usually painless. The sonographer places ultrasound gel on the skin and uses gentle pressure to check whether veins compress normally and whether blood flow is present.

No special preparation is required. Wear loose clothing that can be moved above the area being scanned. You may need to remove socks, tights or trousers depending on the limb being assessed.

A one-limb DVT scan usually takes around 20–30 minutes. A both-limbs scan may take longer depending on symptoms, anatomy, mobility and how much venous mapping is needed.

Yes. Key findings are explained verbally after the scan. A written report is prepared urgently or within 24 hours, suitable for GP, A&E, anticoagulation clinic or specialist review.

If DVT is identified, you will be advised to seek urgent medical treatment. A report can be provided to support NHS or private follow-up, but anticoagulation must be arranged by a doctor or emergency service.

A normal scan can be reassuring, but travel advice depends on symptoms, risk factors and medical history. If DVT is confirmed, flying may be unsafe until treatment and medical review are arranged.

No. A limb Doppler ultrasound checks veins in the limb; it does not image the lungs. If pulmonary embolism is suspected, urgent hospital assessment and specialist imaging are required.

Ultrasound does not use ionising radiation and is commonly used to assess suspected DVT during pregnancy or after delivery. Any confirmed or strongly suspected clotting concern should be managed urgently by an appropriate medical team.

Yes, but tell the sonographer which anticoagulant or blood thinner you are taking and when it was started. Medication can change clot appearance and follow-up decisions.

Yes. Ultrasound may identify chronic clot, scarring, vein wall thickening, residual obstruction or post-thrombotic change, although interpretation depends on previous history and any earlier scan reports.

Bring previous scan reports, discharge summaries, medication lists, anticoagulant details, recent blood test results if relevant and details of recent surgery, flights or hospital stays.

Sometimes. If no DVT is present, ultrasound may show other visible causes such as Baker’s cyst, haematoma, superficial thrombophlebitis or venous change. Some causes need blood tests, clinical examination or other imaging.

Yes. Some patients prefer bilateral scanning for reassurance, and it may be appropriate if risk factors are high or symptoms exist on both sides. The clinic can help you choose the correct option.

Relevant ultrasound images are stored and can be provided digitally with the written report where clinically appropriate.

Yes. Previous DVT can increase future risk, particularly if other risk factors are present. Tell the sonographer about previous clots and bring earlier reports where available.

Varicose veins may be associated with pain, swelling or superficial thrombophlebitis. A DVT Doppler scan focuses on deep veins but may also review relevant superficial veins when symptoms suggest it.

A negative scan is reassuring, but ongoing or worsening symptoms may still need clinical review, repeat imaging or other tests depending on your risk factors and medical history.

You can usually take your normal medication unless a clinician has told you otherwise. Bring a list of medicines, especially anticoagulants, hormone therapy or recent antibiotics.

The page is designed mainly for adult private assessment. For children or teenagers with suspected DVT, urgent paediatric or hospital-led assessment may be more appropriate.