What Is This Scan?
A vascular ultrasound is a specialised examination that uses high-frequency sound waves and Doppler technology to assess the arteries and veins throughout the body. It evaluates blood flow, detects narrowing or blockages, and helps diagnose conditions affecting your circulation without the use of radiation or injections.
At IMPACT Radiology, our vascular examinations are performed using premium ultrasound equipment by experienced sonographers and interpreted by specialist radiologists, providing detailed assessment of both arterial and venous disease.
Conditions We Commonly Assess
Deep Veins
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Superficial vein thrombosis
- Venous obstruction
Leg Veins
- Varicose veins
- Venous insufficiency (venous reflux)
- Chronic venous disease
- Venous ulcers
Carotid Arteries
- Carotid artery stenosis
- Atherosclerotic plaque
- Stroke and transient ischaemic attack (TIA) risk assessment
Peripheral Arteries
- Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
- Arterial narrowing or occlusion
- Claudication (leg pain when walking)
- Reduced blood flow to the limbs
Renal Arteries
- Renal artery stenosis
- Resistant or difficult-to-control hypertension
- Reduced kidney size
- Reduced kidney function due to impaired blood flow
- Surveillance following renal artery intervention
Haemodialysis Access
- Arteriovenous fistula assessment
- Dialysis graft assessment
- Access dysfunction
- Routine surveillance of dialysis access
Other Vascular Conditions
- Pseudoaneurysms
- Arteriovenous fistulas
- Vascular masses
- Post-procedural vascular complications
Why Might My Doctor Request This Scan?
Your doctor may request a vascular ultrasound if you have:
- Leg swelling
- Leg pain
- Suspected blood clot (DVT)
- Varicose veins
- Leg ulcers
- Cold feet or legs
- Pain in the legs when walking
- Reduced pulses
- Dizziness or transient neurological symptoms
- Carotid bruit (abnormal neck blood flow sound)
- Follow-up of known vascular disease
- Assessment of dialysis fistulas or grafts
Preparation
Preparation depends on the examination being performed.
DVT Ultrasound
No preparation is required.
Venous Insufficiency (Varicose Veins) Ultrasound
No preparation is required. You may be asked to stand during part of the examination to assess vein function.
Carotid Doppler Ultrasound
No preparation is required.
Peripheral Arterial Doppler Ultrasound
No preparation is required. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your legs or arms.
Renal Artery Doppler Ultrasound
A 6-hour fast is usually required before your examination to reduce bowel gas and improve visualisation of the renal arteries. You may continue to drink water and take your regular medications unless instructed otherwise.
Dialysis Fistula/Graft Assessment Ultrasound
No preparation is required.
What Happens During the Scan?
A warm ultrasound gel is applied to the skin over the area being examined.
The sonographer uses a handheld ultrasound probe to assess your blood vessels and blood flow. Doppler ultrasound allows blood flow to be measured and displayed in real time.
Depending on the examination, you may be asked to:
- Change position during the scan
- Hold your breath briefly
- Stand for part of the examination (venous reflux studies)
- Perform simple breathing or muscle contraction manoeuvres
Most vascular ultrasound examinations take 20–45 minutes, although more complex studies may take longer.
The examination is painless and does not involve needles or injections.
