Deep Vein Thrombosis / DVT Doppler Ultrasound
Specialist ultrasound assessment for suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT), blood clots in the deep veins of the leg and superficial vein clots.
Private DVT and venous ultrasound scans at our Central London clinic.
If you are concerned about a possible DVT, seek appropriate medical assessment promptly. If you have chest pain, sudden or severe shortness of breath, collapse, cough up blood or feel seriously unwell, seek emergency medical help rather than waiting for a private ultrasound appointment.
What is a DVT?
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) occurs when a blood clot forms within a deep vein, most commonly in the leg. A DVT can obstruct normal venous blood flow and may lead to serious complications.
Ultrasound is used to examine the deep veins and assess whether there is evidence of thrombosis. The examination uses ultrasound rather than ionising radiation.
During the examination, the superficial veins can also be assessed for evidence of a superficial vein clot, sometimes referred to as superficial venous thrombosis or superficial thrombophlebitis.
Why might a DVT ultrasound be requested?
Symptoms can have many different causes and cannot confirm a blood clot on their own. Ultrasound can help assess the veins when thrombosis is suspected.
Leg Swelling
New or unexplained swelling, particularly when affecting one leg.
Leg Pain
Unexplained calf, thigh or leg pain that may require assessment.
Warmth
An area of the leg may feel warmer than the surrounding skin.
Skin Changes
Redness or other unexplained changes in the appearance of the leg.
Calf Tenderness
Localised tenderness or discomfort may be one reason for further assessment.
Superficial Vein Symptoms
A painful, tender, red or firm superficial vein may prompt assessment for a superficial vein clot.
What does the ultrasound check?
The examination uses ultrasound and Doppler techniques to assess the veins and look for evidence of thrombosis.
- The deep veins of the leg
- Vein compressibility
- Blood flow within the assessed veins
- Evidence of deep vein thrombosis
- Relevant superficial veins
- Evidence of superficial venous thrombosis / superficial vein clot
If your main concern is varicose veins or venous reflux rather than a suspected blood clot, see our Varicose Vein Doppler Ultrasound service.
What happens during a DVT scan?
Clinical Information
Relevant symptoms, history and the reason for the examination are reviewed.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound gel and a probe are used to examine the veins of the leg.
Vein Assessment
The relevant deep and superficial veins are assessed for evidence of thrombosis.
Findings
The ultrasound findings are documented to support the appropriate next step in your care.
Deep and superficial vein findings
The examination can identify findings consistent with thrombosis within the deep venous system and can also assess relevant superficial veins for superficial venous thrombosis.
If a clot or another clinically significant finding is identified, the appropriate next step will depend on the ultrasound findings and your individual clinical circumstances.
A vascular ultrasound provides important diagnostic information but does not replace a wider medical assessment where one is required.
Factors associated with DVT
A number of circumstances can increase the risk of venous thrombosis.
- Recent surgery or hospital admission
- Prolonged immobility
- Previous DVT or venous thrombosis
- Long-distance travel or reduced movement
- Pregnancy or the postpartum period
- Certain medical conditions or treatments
Risk factors do not confirm or exclude a DVT. Clinical assessment and appropriate diagnostic testing may be required.
DVT ultrasound prices
Transparent self-pay pricing for private DVT ultrasound assessment in Central London.
Assessment of one leg.
Assessment of both legs.
DVT Ultrasound in London
Tunica Diagnostics
Until, 111 Charing Cross Road
London WC2H 0DT
Monday–Saturday · 9am–9pm
Frequently asked questions
What is a DVT ultrasound scan?
A DVT ultrasound is an examination of the veins, usually in the leg, used to look for evidence of a blood clot within the deep venous system.
Do you check for superficial vein clots as well as DVT?
Yes. In addition to assessing the deep veins for DVT, relevant superficial veins can be examined for evidence of superficial venous thrombosis, sometimes referred to as a superficial vein clot or superficial thrombophlebitis.
What is the difference between DVT and a superficial vein clot?
A DVT involves a clot within the deep venous system. Superficial venous thrombosis involves a vein closer to the surface. Ultrasound can help determine which veins are affected and the extent of the thrombosis.
Can ultrasound confirm a blood clot?
Ultrasound is used to assess the veins for findings consistent with thrombosis. Your results should be considered alongside the wider clinical picture where appropriate.
How much is a private DVT scan?
The current self-pay price is £199 for one leg and £350 for both legs.
Do I need a referral for a DVT scan?
Contact Tunica Diagnostics with your circumstances and the team can advise you about arranging the appropriate examination. If you have a referral or previous clinical information, this can be useful.
Does a DVT ultrasound use radiation?
No. Diagnostic ultrasound uses sound waves and does not use ionising radiation.
Can DVT cause chest pain or shortness of breath?
A blood clot can be associated with serious complications. If you have sudden or severe shortness of breath, chest pain, collapse, cough up blood or feel seriously unwell, seek emergency medical help rather than waiting for a private ultrasound appointment.
Where is Tunica Diagnostics?
Tunica Diagnostics provides vascular ultrasound at Until, 111 Charing Cross Road, London WC2H 0DT.
Request a DVT ultrasound appointment
Specialist ultrasound assessment of the deep and superficial veins at our Central London clinic.