Varicose Vein Ultrasound Scan

Single Leg:
Exam Time: 30 to 45 minutes
Exam Price: €250.00 (Medical card: €230.00)

Both Legs:
Exam Time: 60 to 75 minutes
Exam Price: €350 (Medical card: €330.00)

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The term vascular refers to the blood vessels. Therefore, vascular ultrasound imaging refers to the examination of the body’s circulatory system. This scan studies the speed and volume of blood flow using the Doppler phenomenon. This scan also examines deep and superficial veins in the legs looking for reflux or venous insufficiency.

Areas to be examined are as follows:

  • Peripheral leg veins to assess varicosities and venous reflux (insufficiency)

Medical ultrasound scans are currently the most widely used imaging technique in the diagnosis of vascular disease. It can sometimes be used as a stand alone examination. Another indication is varicose veins. The patient is lying down on an examination table or it is sometimes necessary to have them examined while standing to assess the competency of the lower leg veins.

Note: Be prepared to spend at least 30 to 60 minutes at the clinic for this test. It depends on whether one or both extremities are being assessed.

Contact Us Today To Schedule A Varicose Vein Ultrasound Scan at : 01 210 0232

Peripheral Veins FAQs

Do I need an appointment?

Yes, ultrasound exams do need an appointment. If you cannot attend your appointment we appreciate it if you can give 24 hours notice.

Do I need a referral letter from my GP to book a scan?

Not always. Often you can attend without a GP referral; however, depending on the ultrasound scan requested, we may require a referral from your GP to ensure the correct ultrasound examination is performed.

What is the preparation for a peripheral venous scan?

There is no preparation for this exam however trousers will need to be removed for the exam to evaluate the legs.

What organs are viewed in the peripheral venous scan?

During this examination, we evaluate common femoral, superficial, and deep femoral, popliteal, greater saphenous, lesser saphenous veins as well as superficial varicosities in the right or left leg or both if indicated.

What can a peripheral venous ultrasound see?

The peripheral venous ultrasound can identify whether the valves at the saphenofemoral junction and the saphenopopliteal junction are competent meaning the valves are closing to prevent backward venous flow (reflux).

What happens during the peripheral venous scan?

The sonographer will have you remove your trousers and ask you to lie on the bed facing up. A transducer/camera is placed on the leg starting at the junction of the leg and hip and the sonographer will scan the leg down to the mid-calf on each side to firstly make sure there are no blood clots. During the exam you may hear a noise like the sound of the wind, this is the venous blood flow within the legs. You will then be required to stand so the Sonographer can look at the superficial veins to check for reflux. The sonographer will sometimes have to squeeze your leg to push the blood toward your heart.

What is the preparation for a peripheral venous scan?

There is no preparation for this exam however trousers will need to be removed for the exam to evaluate the legs.

What veins are viewed in the peripheral venous scan?

During a lower extremity venous ultrasound, we evaluate common femoral, greater saphenous, superficial and deep femoral, popliteal, lesser saphenous veins in the right and left leg when indicated. Varicose veins will be assessed with you standing.

What can a Peripheral venous ultrasound see?

The peripheral venous ultrasound can identify if there are any deep or superficial clots and assess the quality of the blood flow at the long and short saphenous veins to insure the valves are competent preventing reflux. The sonographer will also have to push down on the leg or squeeze in various locations to assess the compressibility of the veins or the competency of the valves.

How long will the exam take?

The scheduled time for this exam is usually 45 minutes - 1 hour for both legs.

Who will report my vascular exam?

After the sonographer has completed your exam the images will be sent to a Consultant Radiologist who will report your scan.

When will I receive my results?

Please note that Sonographers are not permitted to provide verbal results during or after the exam. After the ultrasound images have been thoroughly reviewed by our Consultant Radiologist, the official report will be issued and made available to you and/or your GP, usually within 24-48 hours. We are committed to ensuring the accuracy and reliability of your results and appreciate your understanding and patience.