What is a DVT Ultrasound?

A DVT ultrasound is a safe, painless scan that uses sound waves to examine the veins in your leg.

It helps your clinician check for a deep vein thrombosis (blood clot), most commonly in the thigh or calf.

Why do I need this scan?

You may be referred for a DVT ultrasound if you have: pain, swelling, warmth, or redness in a leg, recent

surgery, injury, or long periods of immobility (e.g., long flights or hospital stay). A history of blood clots or high

D-dimer blood test. Risk factors such as hormone therapy, smoking, or certain medical conditions. The scan

helps confirm or rule out a blood clot so you can get the right treatment quickly.

How should I prepare?

No special preparation is needed. You may eat, drink, and take your normal medications. Wear loose-fitting

clothing for easy access to your leg. If you have compression stockings, you may be asked to remove them

before the scan.

What happens during the scan?

You will be asked to lie on an examination couch. A warm gel is applied to your leg. The clinician uses an

ultrasound probe to examine the veins from the groin down to the calf. Gentle pressure is applied with the

probe — this is normal and helps check if the veins compress properly. You may be asked to move your foot or

hold your breath briefly to help assess blood flow. The scan typically takes 25–30 minutes, depending on how

much of the leg needs to be examined.

Is it painful or harmful?

The test is not harmful and uses no radiation. It is usually painless, though the pressure applied to your leg may

feel slightly uncomfortable at times.

After the scan

You can return to your usual activities immediately. The gel will be wiped off, though a small amount may

remain temporarily.

Are there any risks?

There are no known risks from a DVT ultrasound.

Results

Your scan images will be reviewed and the results sent to your email, and if you wish to your referring doctor.

Safety

Ultrasound is widely recognised as a very safe procedure. It uses high-frequency sound waves rather than

ionising radiation, so there is no X-ray exposure. Most patients do not experience any side effects.

Occasionally, you may feel mild pressure or temporary discomfort from the probe during the examination, but

this usually settles quickly.Contact Information

Number: +442080581556 | +447745795699

Email: [email protected]

If you have any questions or concerns about your upcoming ultrasound scan, please contact We’re here to

support you and ensure your scan experience is smooth and reassuring.

Thank you for choosing MedLabs!