Wales' first consultant-led ultrasound clinic

DVT Leg Ultrasound, Cardiff & South Wales

Self-refer. Consultant-led. Immediate results explained at your appointment.

★★★★★ 4.9 from 376 Google reviews
Same-week appointments Immediate results explained HIW regulated
£ 260
All-inclusive private
DVT scan
Immediate results Same-week No referral

What's included for £260

  • Consultant Radiologist scan — results explained immediately
  • Written report within 24-48 hours
  • Digital scan images
  • Onward referral if needed
  • No GP referral required
What we examine

Deep veins of the leg

A focused Doppler ultrasound to detect or exclude deep vein thrombosis (blood clot) in the leg.

Common femoral vein

At the groin.

Superficial femoral vein

Mid-thigh.

Popliteal vein

Behind the knee.

Tibial veins (limited)

Below the knee — less reliable.

Compressibility test

Veins that don't compress = clot.

Doppler flow

Confirms normal blood flow.

Baker's cyst

Often mimics DVT — we exclude.

Other causes of swelling

Cellulitis, haematoma.

Common reasons people book

Reasons to book a DVT scan

Sudden calf or thigh swelling
Pain in the calf (especially when standing)
Redness or warmth in the leg
Recent long-haul flight
Recent surgery or immobility
Pregnancy or post-partum concerns
Family history of clots
Previous DVT — new symptoms
Conditions detected

What we can identify

DVT ultrasound is the standard test to exclude or confirm deep vein thrombosis. We use compression and Doppler imaging.

Acute DVT

Fresh clot in the deep veins — needs anticoagulation.

Chronic DVT

Old clot from previous episode — ongoing risk.

Baker's cyst (ruptured)

Common DVT mimic — we identify it clearly.

Superficial thrombophlebitis

Clot in superficial veins — different management.

Cellulitis

Skin/soft tissue infection — explains some swelling.

Muscle haematoma

Bleed in the muscle can cause similar symptoms.

If we find a DVT, we contact your GP urgently the same day and you'll need to start anticoagulation treatment immediately. We don't leave you to sort it yourself.

Before your scan

Preparation

No preparation needed

How to prepare

Wear loose trousers or shorts we need access to the whole leg from groin to ankle.
Eat and drink normally no fasting required.
Take usual medications including any blood thinners.
Bring your symptoms timeline when did swelling start, any triggers.

If you're acutely unwell, very breathless, or have chest pain, please call 999 or attend A&E — this could be a pulmonary embolism.

Same-day appointments are often available for DVT scans — call 029 2199 9300.

What to expect

Your appointment, step by step

1

Arrive

Free parking at Penarth. 5-minute walk from Penarth railway station.

2

Meet your consultant

Brief chat about your symptoms and history. Ask any questions.

3

The scan (30 mins)

Lie on your back, warm gel applied to your abdomen. Consultant explains findings as they scan.

4

Immediate results

Your consultant explains the findings as they scan and again at the end — you leave knowing what's going on. Written report follows within 24-48 hours.

★★★★★

Had been waiting ages on the NHS to get a scan… so when I saw this service available on the high street I was surprised. Scan was organised for the same week, totally worth it. Actually got a diagnosis for once. Dr Junaid was very thorough and explained everything.

Verified Google review · Same-week ultrasound at Acorn
Pricing

Transparent, all-inclusive

One simple price for a single-area scan. Combine with other scans in the same appointment for better value.

Single scan

DVT Leg Ultrasound

£260
  • Immediate results explained & written report in 24-48 hrs
  • Same-week appointment
  • No GP referral required
Book single scan
Save more

Bundle with another area

£360
  • Two body areas in one appointment
  • Common combos available at booking
  • Save £160 vs two separate scans
Book bundle

All prices include consultation, scan, written report, digital images and any onward referral if required.

Watch & prepare

See what an abdomen ultrasound involves

Our patient information video walks you through how to prepare, what happens during the scan and what to expect afterwards. About 2 minutes long.

The playlist includes videos for Abdomen, Pelvis, Testicular, Neck, Lump, DVT, Groin and Steroid injections.

Where to find us

Our Penarth clinic

Penarth Clinic

13 Washington Buildings
Stanwell Road, Penarth
CF64 2AD

10 minutes from Cardiff city centre · Free street parking

Get directions →

Patients travel to us from Cardiff, Newport, Bridgend, Barry, Caerphilly, Swansea and the Vale.

FAQ

Common questions about dvt leg ultrasound

How much does a private DVT scan cost?

£260 for one leg, £360 for both.

Can I get a same-day appointment?

Often yes — DVT is time-critical. Call us on 029 2199 9300 and we'll get you in as soon as possible.

Do I need a GP referral?

No — self-refer. Book online.

What if you find a DVT?

We contact your GP urgently and you'll need to start anticoagulation treatment that day. Don't worry — we don't leave you to sort it alone.

How long does the scan take?

About 30 minutes per leg.

Is the scan painful?

No — gentle probe pressure with gel. We avoid the most tender area.

Can ultrasound detect a pulmonary embolism?

No — PE is detected on a CT chest scan. If we suspect PE (breathlessness, chest pain), urgent A&E referral.

What's the difference between DVT and a Baker's cyst?

Both cause calf swelling. A ruptured Baker's cyst tracks fluid down the calf — ultrasound distinguishes them easily.

Is ultrasound safe?

Yes — no radiation, safe for all including pregnancy.

Can I take my blood thinner?

Yes — continue all medications as normal.

Will I get a written report?

Yes — immediate verbal results plus written report (urgent dispatch if DVT found).

Where do I go?

Acorn Private Clinic at Penarth (CF64 2AD), 10 minutes from Cardiff.

Get the answers you need.

Self-refer for a private abdomen ultrasound — consultant-led, same-week, with immediate results explained at your appointment and a written report within 24-48 hours. £260 all-inclusive.