What is venous insufficiency?

Venous insufficiency occurs when the valves in your leg veins don't work effectively, causing blood to pool in your legs. This can lead to symptoms like swelling, pain, and varicose veins.

No, a venous insufficiency scan is a non-invasive and painless procedure. You may feel slight pressure from the probe, but there is no discomfort.

How long does the scan take?

The scan typically takes between 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the complexity of your venous system and the extent of the assessment required.

Do I need a referral for this scan?

While a referral is not strictly necessary for a private scan, it is often helpful for your clinician to interpret the results in the context of your overall health.

What happens if venous insufficiency is found?

If venous insufficiency is detected, the report will detail the findings. You can then discuss these with your GP or a vascular specialist to explore treatment options, which may include lifestyle changes, compression therapy, or minimally invasive procedures.

Can I eat or drink before the scan?

Yes, there are no dietary restrictions for a venous insufficiency scan. You can eat and drink as normal before your appointment.

HCPC Registered— All sonographers

CQC Compliant— Regulated clinic

Same-Day Available— Mon – Sat

Written Report— Within 24 hours

HCPC Registered

CQC Compliant

Same-Day Available

Written Report

Vascular & Cardiac

Venous Insufficiency Scan

This scan assesses the veins in your legs for signs of reflux and insufficiency, helping to diagnose conditions like varicose veins and chronic venous disease.

30-45 minutes

Same-day appointments

Marylebone, London W1

HCPC RegisteredCQC CompliantSame-Day AvailableWritten Report IncludedVascular & Cardiac Imaging

£235

Book Your Scan Call Us

4.9/5 from 600+ patients

HCPC-registered sonographers

Written report within 24 hours

Same-day appointments available

CQC-compliant clinic

Understanding Your Situation

When Aching Legs and Swelling Signal Something More Serious

Persistent leg pain, swelling, and discomfort can significantly impact your daily life, making even simple activities a challenge. Our Venous Insufficiency Scan provides a clear diagnosis, guiding you towards effective treatment and relief. Located at 29 Weymouth Street, Marylebone, our clinic provides same-day diagnostic ultrasound with written reports.

Clinical Overview

What is a Venous Insufficiency Scan?

A Venous Insufficiency Scan, also known as a venous duplex ultrasound, uses sound waves to create images of the veins in your legs. It evaluates blood flow and valve function to detect reflux, which is when blood flows backward, indicating venous insufficiency.

Is This Scan Right for You?

Who Should Book This Scan?

Individuals experiencing varicose veins or spider veins.

Those with chronic leg pain, aching, or heaviness.

Patients with leg swelling, especially after prolonged standing.

People with skin changes on the legs, such as discolouration or ulcers.

Anyone with a family history of venous disease or deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Diagnostic Scope

What This Scan Can Detect

Varicose Veins

Enlarged, twisted veins often visible under the skin, assessed for their extent and underlying cause of reflux.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

A condition where leg veins struggle to send blood back to the heart, leading to symptoms like swelling, pain, and skin changes.

Venous Reflux

Abnormal backward flow of blood in the veins due to faulty valves, a primary indicator of venous insufficiency.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Exclusion

While primarily for insufficiency, the scan can help rule out acute DVT as a cause of leg symptoms.

Perforator Vein Incompetence

Dysfunction in veins connecting superficial and deep venous systems, contributing to venous hypertension and skin changes.

Your Appointment

What Happens During Your Scan

Arrival & Preparation

You'll be asked to remove clothing from the waist down and lie on the examination couch. The sonographer will explain the procedure.

Gel Application

A warm, water-based gel is applied to your leg to ensure good contact between the ultrasound probe and your skin.

Scanning

The sonographer moves a small handheld probe (transducer) over your leg, capturing real-time images of your veins and blood flow.

Dynamic Assessment

You may be asked to stand or perform specific manoeuvres to assess vein function under different conditions, particularly for reflux.

Completion

The gel is wiped off, and you can get dressed. The sonographer will then prepare your report for review by a consultant radiologist.

Before Your Appointment

How to Prepare for Your Scan

1
No specific preparation is usually required for a venous insufficiency scan.
2
Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that allows easy access to your legs.
3
Please inform the sonographer if you have any open wounds or skin conditions on your legs.
4
Continue to take all your prescribed medications as normal.

After Your Scan

Understanding Your Venous Insufficiency Scan Results

After your scan, a detailed report will be prepared by a consultant radiologist, outlining any findings related to venous insufficiency or other vascular conditions. This report will be sent to you and your referring clinician within 24 hours, providing clear insights into your venous health.

Why Private?