How accurate is ultrasound for diagnosing DVT?

Compression ultrasound with Doppler is the gold-standard test for proximal DVT, with sensitivity and specificity exceeding 95%. It is the first-line investigation recommended by NICE guidelines.

Is the DVT scan painful?

No. The scan involves gentle compression of the vein with the ultrasound probe, which may feel slightly uncomfortable if there is significant swelling, but is not painful.

How quickly will I get my results?

Your sonographer will give you verbal findings immediately after the scan. A written report is provided before you leave the clinic.

What happens if a DVT is found?

If a DVT is detected, you will receive a written report to take to your GP or A&E immediately. Treatment typically involves anticoagulant medication (blood thinners), and your sonographer will advise on the urgency of follow-up.

Can I eat and drink normally before the scan?

Yes. There are no dietary restrictions for a DVT scan. You can eat and drink as normal.

Do I need a GP referral?

No referral is needed. You can book directly online or by telephone. Same-day appointments are available Monday to Saturday.

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

DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) Scan

Rapid, accurate ultrasound assessment to detect blood clots in the deep veins — protecting you from the life-threatening risk of pulmonary embolism.

20–30 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

Leg Pain or Swelling That Worries You?

A swollen, painful, or warm leg can be a sign of deep vein thrombosis — a blood clot that, if left undetected, can travel to the lungs and become a pulmonary embolism. In the UK, DVT affects approximately 1 in 1,000 people each year, and prompt diagnosis is essential. Our DVT scan provides a clear, same-day answer so you can act quickly and with confidence. Based at 29 Weymouth Street in Marylebone, Central London, we provide same-day appointments with written reports included.

Clinical Overview

What is a DVT Ultrasound Scan?

A DVT scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the deep veins in the leg, assessing blood flow and detecting the presence of clots. It is the gold-standard diagnostic test for DVT, recommended by NICE guidelines as the first-line investigation for suspected deep vein thrombosis. The scan is painless, non-invasive, and produces immediate results.

Is This Scan Right for You?

Who Should Book This Scan?

Individuals with a swollen, painful, or warm leg — particularly in the calf or thigh

Patients who have recently had surgery, prolonged bed rest, or a long-haul flight

Those with a personal or family history of blood clots or clotting disorders

Anyone with a raised D-dimer blood test result requiring imaging confirmation

Patients with unexplained leg discolouration or heaviness

People with cancer or other conditions that increase clotting risk

Diagnostic Scope

What This Scan Can Detect

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)

Identification of blood clots within the deep veins of the leg — most commonly in the femoral, popliteal, or calf veins — which obstruct blood flow and cause swelling and pain.

Clot Location & Extent

Precise mapping of the clot's position and size, which determines the urgency and type of treatment required, from anticoagulation to hospitalisation.

Blood Flow Abnormalities

Doppler assessment of venous blood flow patterns to identify blockages, reduced flow, or non-compressibility of veins — the hallmark sign of DVT.

Venous Insufficiency

Assessment of vein valve function and reflux, which can predispose to clot formation and cause chronic venous disease.

Post-Thrombotic Syndrome

Evaluation for signs of previous DVT damage to vein valves, which can cause long-term leg swelling, pain, and skin changes.

Your Appointment

What Happens During Your Scan

Arrival & clinical history

Your sonographer will take a brief clinical history, including your symptoms, risk factors, and any relevant blood test results such as D-dimer.

Positioning

You will lie on the examination couch with your leg slightly bent. The scan covers the veins from the groin down to the calf.

Compression & Doppler assessment

The sonographer applies gentle pressure with the probe (compression test) and uses colour Doppler to assess blood flow through each vein segment.

Immediate verbal findings

Your sonographer will explain their findings immediately after the scan. If a DVT is detected, you will receive clear guidance on urgent next steps.

Written report

A comprehensive written report is provided before you leave, suitable for your GP or A&E if urgent treatment is required.

Before Your Appointment

How to Prepare for Your Scan

1
No special preparation is required for a DVT scan
2
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your leg
3
Bring any relevant blood test results (e.g., D-dimer) if you have them
4
Continue taking all prescribed medications as normal
5
Allow 30–45 minutes for your appointment including discussion time

After Your Scan

Understanding Your DVT Scan Results

Your sonographer will explain all findings immediately after the scan. A normal scan showing fully compressible veins with normal blood flow is highly reassuring. If a DVT is detected, you will receive a written report to take to your GP or A&E immediately, along with clear guidance on the urgency of follow-up. Our reports are accepted by all major NHS hospitals and private clinicians.

Why Private?