Doppler Ultrasound Scans

Fast, Accurate & Without Referral

Doppler ultrasound scans are specialised types of ultrasound that help clinicians assess the blood flow through your veins and arteries. By measuring how fast blood moves and in what direction it travels, these scans can provide crucial information about the health of your circulatory system without using radiation.

Not sure which scan is right for you?

If you’re unsure which ultrasound you need, our clinical team can help. For just £50 you’ll receive expert guidance on the right scan for your symptoms, a no-obligation referral if imaging is required, and peace of mind knowing you’re on the right track.

Why Choose a Doppler Ultrasound?

Doppler scans are used when there’s a concern about how blood circulates through your body. They can help identify issues such as reduced circulation, blockages, or blood clots, often before symptoms become serious. Our team can guide you on whether this type of scan is suitable for your symptoms.

What Does a Doppler Ultrasound Show?

A Doppler ultrasound enables clinicians to see and measure the speed and direction of blood flow through blood vessels. Unlike a typical ultrasound that shows only structure, Doppler imaging can reveal how well blood is moving through veins and arteries and whether there are any disruptions or abnormalities.

Common Uses for Doppler Scans

Doppler ultrasound is often recommended to investigate symptoms or conditions such as:
• Suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or blood clots
• Reduced circulation from narrowed arteries
• Venous insufficiency (poor blood return)
• Peripheral artery disease (PAD)
• Assessment of blood flow after vascular procedures
• Monitoring known circulatory issues
 
These scans can highlight changes in blood flow that could indicate early signs of a vascular condition.

Body Areas Assessed

Doppler ultrasound can be used on various parts of the body, including:
• Legs and arms
• Neck (including carotid arteries)
• Chest and heart blood flow
• Abdomen and major abdominal vessels
 
It can also form part of pregnancy assessments when blood flow to the baby is being monitored. 

Types of Doppler Ultrasound

There are several types of Doppler scans your clinician may recommend depending on your symptoms:
Venous Doppler: focuses on the veins to look for clots or valve issues
Arterial Doppler: checks how arteries carry blood to limbs
Carotid Doppler: assesses blood flow in arteries supplying the brain
• ⁠ Duplex Doppler: combines standard imaging and blood flow measurement
Triplex Doppler: advanced imaging with colour and flow information
 
These specialised approaches help deliver a comprehensive picture of vascular health.

How a Doppler Ultrasound Works

During the scan, a sonographer uses a handheld device called a transducer and applies a water-based gel to the skin. This device emits high-frequency sound waves that reflect off moving blood cells. By analysing the echoes, the ultrasound machine displays images and flow patterns, showing how blood moves through the vessels in real time.

Is a Doppler Ultrasound Safe?

Yes, Doppler ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation, making it a very safe and non-invasive test for most people. There are no known harmful side effects, and you can generally return to normal activities immediately after the scan.

Preparing for Your Scan

Most Doppler scans require little to no preparation, but you may be asked to wear loose clothing or change into a gown. If the scan involves your abdomen, you might be advised to fast for a short period beforehand. Any specific instructions will be provided when you book your appointment.

What Happens on the Day

When you arrive, the sonographer will explain the procedure and answer any questions. You’ll lie comfortably while the probe is moved over the area of interest. The test usually takes around 20–40 minutes. Afterward, the gel is wiped off, and you can leave straight away.

Receiving Your Results

After your scan, a specialist clinician reviews the images and prepares your report. You’ll receive your results digitally, often quickly, along with support from our clinical team to help you understand what they mean and what steps to take next if further investigation or treatment is recommended.

Additional Diagnostic Scanning Services

Alongside musculoskeletal ultrasound, we provide specialist Doppler ultrasound scans to assess blood flow through veins and arteries. These scans support accurate evaluation of circulation, early detection of vascular concerns, and informed clinical decision-making. All Doppler scans are carried out by experienced clinicians using modern imaging technology in a professional clinical setting.

Is a Doppler Ultrasound Right for You?

If you’re experiencing symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, circulation concerns, or changes in blood flow, a Doppler ultrasound scan may help identify the cause. Our experienced clinical team offers quick, personalised consultations to assess your symptoms and advise whether a venous or arterial Doppler scan is suitable. There’s no obligation to proceed, free cancellation is available, and you’ll receive clear guidance tailored to your needs.