Ultrasound scan of your leg arteries

What is an ultrasound scan of the arteries in your leg?

An ultrasound scan of the arteries in your legs may also be called an 'arterial duplex' or 'arterial Doppler’. This test uses ultrasound to produce images of the arteries in your legs. The arteries carry blood away from the heart to supply the extremities. This test is a safe and effective way to assess the blood flow and can determine whether there are any narrowings or blockages in the arteries. This will allow the consultant to appropriately plan your treatment.

The test is painless and does not use any radiation or needles. There are no risks associated with this test.

About the test

Where do I go?

The Vascular Studies Unit (VSU) is on Level 5 of the Addenbrooke’s Treatment Centre (ATC). Please inform reception of your arrival straight away. There are often other clinics in progress, so you may not be called in order of arrival. You may bring a relative or friend in with you during the test or request a chaperone if you would like one.

What is consent?

Before your test is performed you must give your consent or permission. Consent is the process by which you give permission to healthcare professionals to provide your care and treatment. It may be implied (offering your arm for a blood pressure reading) or formal (signing a formal consent form for an operation). In either case your consent must be given voluntarily, and you must have all the information you need to make a decision. If you feel you do not have enough information or do not understand the procedure, please ask.

How do I prepare for the test?

The clinical vascular scientist may need to scan your abdomen. Therefore, it is helpful if you are able to only eat a light meal prior to your appointment. This will help remove any excess bowel gas and can improve the test results. You can drink fluids as normal. If a medical condition requires you to eat regularly, please do not restrict your food intake; it will still be possible to perform the scan.

How is an ultrasound scan of the arteries performed?

A clinical vascular scientist will perform and interpret your ultrasound scan. You will be asked to remove your shoes, socks and trousers or skirt. The lights will be dimmed to allow the best images to be obtained.

If possible, the scan will be performed with you lying down on the couch. Gel is applied to your leg and the scan is carried out from the groin down to the ankle. The ultrasound probe will be moved down the leg to view all of the arteries. In some patients, it may be necessary to extend the scan above the level of the groin into the abdomen.

The scan takes approximately 30 to 60 minutes. During the test, you may hear some 'swooshing' noises from the ultrasound machine. These sounds are normal.

What happens next?

The clinical vascular scientist can comment briefly on the findings and will write a report for the consultant who requested the test. You will be able to discuss the results of this investigation fully with the referring team at your next outpatient appointment.

In rare cases, the clinical vascular scientist may need to discuss the result with a doctor before you leave.

Contacts / further information

If you require further information, please do not hesitate to call the Vascular Studies Unit (VSU) on 01223 348117.

Privacy and dignity

Same sex bays and bathrooms are offered in all wards except critical care and theatre recovery areas where the use of high-tech equipment and/or specialist one-to-one care is required.