DVT Leg Ultrasound, Cardiff & South Wales
Self-refer. Consultant-led. Results explained at your appointment, often same day.
DVT scan
What's included for £260
- ✓Consultant Radiologist scan, with findings explained as they go
- ✓Written report within 24-48 hours
- ✓Digital scan images
- ✓Urgent onward referral if a clot is found
- ✓No GP referral required
Deep veins of the leg
A focused Doppler ultrasound to detect or exclude deep vein thrombosis (a 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, where imaging is less reliable.
Compressibility test
A vein that will not compress means clot.
Doppler flow
Confirms blood is flowing normally.
Baker's cyst
A frequent DVT mimic. See our knee scan.
Other causes of swelling
Cellulitis, haematoma, muscle tears.
Reasons to book a DVT scan
What we can identify
Ultrasound is the standard test for confirming or excluding deep vein thrombosis. We use compression and Doppler imaging together.
Acute DVT
Fresh clot in the deep veins, which needs anticoagulation.
Chronic DVT
Old clot from a previous episode, and the ongoing risk it carries.
Baker's cyst (ruptured)
A common DVT mimic. We identify it clearly, and can look at the joint itself on a knee scan.
Superficial thrombophlebitis
Clot in the superficial veins, which is managed differently.
Cellulitis
Skin and soft tissue infection, which explains some swollen legs.
If we find a DVT we contact your GP urgently the same day, and you will need to start anticoagulation treatment immediately. We do not leave you to sort it out yourself.
Preparation
How to prepare
If you are acutely unwell, very breathless, or have chest pain, please call 999 or go to A&E. Those symptoms can mean a pulmonary embolism, which needs hospital assessment rather than a clinic scan.
Same-day appointments are often available for DVT scans. Call 029 2199 9300 and tell us it is urgent.
Your appointment, step by step
Arrive
Free street parking at Penarth, and a 5-minute walk from Penarth railway station.
Meet your consultant
A short chat about your symptoms, your history and any risk factors. Ask anything you like.
The scan (30 mins)
You lie back with the leg slightly bent. Warm gel goes on from the groin down to the calf, and the consultant presses gently along each vein to test whether it compresses.
Results on the day
The consultant explains the findings while scanning and again at the end, so you leave knowing whether there is a clot. The 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.
Transparent, all-inclusive
One price for one leg. If symptoms affect both legs, we scan both in the same appointment for £360.
One leg
- ✓Results explained on the day, written report in 24-48 hrs
- ✓Same-week appointment, often same day
- ✓No GP referral required
Both legs
- ✓Both legs scanned in one appointment
- ✓For swelling or pain affecting both sides
- ✓Save £160 vs two separate scans
All prices include consultation, scan, written report, digital images and any onward referral if required.
See what a DVT leg 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.
Filmed at our Penarth clinic. If your symptoms are getting worse while you wait for an appointment, call us on 029 2199 9300.
Our Penarth clinic
Patients travel to us from Cardiff, Newport, Bridgend, Barry, Caerphilly, Swansea and the Vale.
Common questions about DVT leg ultrasound
How much does a private DVT scan cost?
£260 for one leg, £360 for both legs in the same appointment.
Can I get a same-day appointment?
Often yes, because DVT is time-critical. Call us on 029 2199 9300 and we will get you in as soon as we can.
Do I need a GP referral?
No, this is a self-referral scan. Book online.
What if you find a DVT?
We contact your GP urgently and you will need to start anticoagulation treatment that day. We arrange the onward care with you before you leave.
How long does the scan take?
About 30 minutes per leg.
Is the scan painful?
No. It is gentle probe pressure with warm gel, and we work around the most tender area.
Can ultrasound detect a pulmonary embolism?
No. A PE is diagnosed on a CT scan of the chest. If we suspect one, from breathlessness or chest pain, we refer you urgently to A&E.
What is the difference between a DVT and a Baker's cyst?
Both cause calf swelling. A ruptured Baker's cyst tracks fluid down the calf, and ultrasound tells the two apart easily. A knee scan looks at the cyst itself.
Is ultrasound safe?
Yes. There is no radiation, and it is safe in pregnancy.
Can I take my blood thinner?
Yes. Continue all your medications as normal.
Will I get a written report?
Yes. The findings are explained at your appointment, and a written consultant report follows, sent urgently if a DVT is found.
Where do I go?
Acorn Private Clinic at Penarth (CF64 2AD), 10 minutes from Cardiff city centre.
Get the answers you need.
Self-refer for a private DVT leg ultrasound. Consultant-led, often same day, with results explained at your appointment and a written report within 24-48 hours. £260 all-inclusive.