VENOUS COLOUR DOPPLER ULTRASOUND SCAN

What the test evaluates

• Detects deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) and superficial clots
• Measures blood-flow direction and speed
• Assesses vein wall compressibility and valve function

Why Cadabams Diagnostics is trusted

• 25+ years of imaging excellence
• NABL-accredited labs & ICMR-approved protocols
• Same-day soft-copy reports via secure email

What is Venous Colour Doppler Ultrasound Scan?

Definition and technology behind colour Doppler

A venous colour Doppler scan is a real-time ultrasound that adds colour-coded images to show blood moving toward or away from the probe. This lets the technologist “see” clots, reflux, or blockages that standard black-and-white ultrasound can miss.

Difference between standard ultrasound and colour Doppler

Types of Venous Colour Doppler Ultrasound Scan

• Upper-limb venous Doppler – arms, subclavian, jugular veins
• Lower-limb venous Doppler – thighs, calves, popliteal veins
• Whole-leg vs targeted segmental studies – chosen by the radiologist based on symptoms

• Vein compressibility – healthy veins collapse under probe pressure
• Blood flow direction & velocity – checks for reflux or obstruction
• Presence of thrombus or reflux – clot seen as a filling defect
• Valve competency – valves should prevent backward flow

• Rule out DVT before long flights or surgery
• Assess chronic venous insufficiency causing leg ulcers
• Pre-operative mapping for varicose-vein surgery

Symptoms indicating a venous scan

• Sudden leg pain or heaviness
• Swelling in one limb
• Warmth or redness over a vein
• Visible varicose veins or skin ulcers

At-risk populations

• Post-surgery patients on bed rest
• Pregnancy (hormonal changes + pressure on pelvic veins)
• Sedentary office workers or long-haul travelers
• Smokers, cancer patients, or those on hormone therapy

Benefits of Taking the Venous Colour Doppler Ultrasound Scan

• Non-invasive and painless – just gel and gentle probe pressure
• Real-time results – see blood flow instantly on screen
• Zero radiation – repeat as often as needed

Illnesses Diagnosed with Venous Colour Doppler Ultrasound Scan

• Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
• Varicose veins & venous reflux
• Superficial thrombophlebitis
• Venous malformations or arteriovenous fistulas

• Wear loose clothing; remove jewellery from limbs
• Fasting is not required – eat and drink normally
• Bring doctor’s referral and any previous scan reports

Pre-requisites Venous Colour Doppler Ultrasound Scan

• Doctor’s prescription (as per insurer or hospital protocol)
• Clean, dry skin on the limb to be scanned—avoid lotions

Best Time to Take the Venous Colour Doppler Ultrasound Scan

• Morning slots reduce leg swelling from day-long standing
• Urgent booking within 24 h if acute DVT is suspected

Eligibility

• Adults of all ages
• Safe in pregnancy – no radiation risk
• Pediatric scans on physician request (smaller probe used)

Procedure for Taking a Venous Colour Doppler Ultrasound Scan

1. Duration: 30–45 minutes
2. Position: Lie on your back; the limb may be slightly rotated
3. Gel application: Water-based gel helps sound waves travel
4. Probe movement: Technologist glides the probe along veins; you may hear “whooshing” sounds representing blood flow

Caution Before Taking the Test

• Inform staff of any contrast allergies (rarely used)
• Remove compression stockings 2 h before the exam to avoid false-negative results