Vascular ultrasound (also known as duplex or doppler ultrasound) is a non-invasive diagnostic test which is carried out to investigate diseases of the circulation. The ultrasound scans are performed by clinical vascular scientists to look at the arteries or veins in the neck, arms, legs or abdomen. Some tests also involve blood pressure measurements in the arms and legs.

Vascular ultrasound scans are requested mainly by doctors from the vascular team, but also from other specialisms including A&E, neurology, rheumatology, pediatrics, amongst others. A clinical vascular scientist will perform the scan, interpret the results and report the results. These are then sent to the referring doctor who will assess the patient with the results and will decide on any further investigations or treatment that may be necessary. Types of scans performed include carotid, AAA, upper and lower limb arterial, upper and lower limb venous (for deep vein thrombosis and superficial vein incompetence), TCCD and fistula.


Conditions we treat

Vascular ultrasound is used to examine all arteries and veins in the body, including those in the neck, arms, legs and abdomen.

 


Treatments we offer

Vascular ultrasound is a diagnostic service and does not offer treatments. Any disease or abnormality found is treated by the referring doctor.



 

 

Education and training

The department is accredited by the Scientist Training Programme (STP) and Higher Specialist Scientist Training Programme (HSST) and is therefore able to offer short placements to other STP and HSST students requiring experience in the field of vascular ultrasound. Please contact 020 3311 7322 for further information.

Further online resources