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What is vascular ultrasound?
A vascular ultrasound (also known as a duplex scan) is an ultrasound scan that examines your blood vessels and how blood moves through them. It combines images of an artery or vein with Doppler measurements of blood flow. Depending on your referral, the scan may check for:
- Narrowed arteries: A narrowing that limits blood supply to a leg.
- Blood clots: A clot in a vein.
- Vein valve problems: Valves that are letting blood flow backwards.
Your referral states which blood vessels need to be checked, and for what problem.
Artery and vein scans have different purposes
Arterial ultrasound
Arteries carry blood away from the heart. An arterial scan can detect plaque or narrowing and measure how it affects blood flow. Your doctor may request it to investigate symptoms such as:
- Calf pain when walking
- A wound that is not healing well
- Reduced circulation
It can also be used to monitor some previous vascular treatments.
A vein scan for a suspected clot
A venous ultrasound may be used to investigate a possible deep vein thrombosis (DVT). The sonographer will examine the veins and their blood flow, and press with the probe to see whether the veins compress normally. This helps determine whether a clot is present.
A vein valve assessment
For varicose veins or ongoing leg swelling, the question may be whether the vein valves are working properly. A reflux study checks for blood flowing backwards through valves that should stop it. This requires a different scan from one looking for an acute clot.
Scans of the neck arteries are covered separately on the carotid ultrasound page. Please check which scan your referral specifies, rather than asking for a general “circulation check”.
Performed by Scope Radiology
Scope Radiology performs this scan at its Clayton imaging centre and will confirm your scan appointment, preparation instructions, and fees.
Arteries or veins
The scan depends on your referral
Ultrasound and Doppler
Shows vessel structure and blood flow
Preparation varies
Confirm the area and type of scan
What happens during the appointment
- Getting started:
The sonographer will confirm which area needs to be scanned and ask about your symptoms and any earlier clots, surgery, or vascular treatment. - Getting comfortable:
You will be asked to move or remove clothing over the area being scanned. A covering will be provided for the rest of your body. - The scan:
The sonographer will apply gel to your skin and glide the probe along the path of the blood vessels, recording images and measuring blood flow at selected points. - Sounds and pressure:
You may hear blood-flow sounds from the machine. Some scans involve pressure from the probe or compression of part of the limb.
Your position may change
For an artery or DVT scan, you may spend much of the time lying down. A vein valve study may also require you to stand or sit in a particular position so the blood flow can be checked. Please let staff know if you have pain, poor balance, or difficulty standing.
How long the scan takes depends on whether one or both limbs are being scanned and which vessels need to be traced. A detailed vascular scan may take longer than a general ultrasound. Scope Radiology will confirm how long your appointment is expected to take.
If you've been referred for imaging
Your GP or specialist can determine whether imaging would help and refer you for the right scan. Please have your referral ready when confirming your booking so the Scope Radiology team can verify which scan has been requested and confirm your preparation and appointment details.
A Heartscope cardiologist consultation and a Scope Radiology scan are separate appointments. If you are having both, please confirm where each appointment will take place.
Fees
Scope Radiology will confirm the scan fee and any out-of-pocket amount before your visit. Medicare eligibility depends on the scan and your referral. For the latest scan fees, see Scope Radiology's Clayton clinic page. If you also need a Heartscope consultation, it has its own fee.
Understanding your results
Scope Radiology will prepare a detailed report describing the vessels that were scanned and any relevant findings (such as a clot, a narrowed artery, or blood flowing backwards through vein valves), and forward it directly to your referring doctor. Your doctor will consider the results alongside your symptoms and examination findings.
A clot may need prompt treatment, while a long-standing artery narrowing or vein valve problem may lead to medications, further assessment, or a referral to a specialist. The scan itself does not treat the vessel.
Deep vessels, wounds, calcification, or difficulty getting into the required positions can limit an ultrasound. If an important area cannot be fully assessed, another scan or a repeat of this one may be recommended. Your doctor should explain any limitation that affects the next decision.
Preparing for the appointment
This scan is performed by Scope Radiology. Please follow their preparation instructions for your scan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is vascular ultrasound done at Heartscope clinics?
No. This scan is performed by Scope Radiology. Your GP or specialist can refer you for the particular artery or vein scan you need. Heartscope cardiologists can assess related heart and circulation concerns and refer you where appropriate.
Is a DVT scan the same as a varicose vein scan?
No. A DVT scan looks for a clot in the veins. A reflux study checks how well the vein valves stop blood flowing backwards, and may involve different positions and measurements. Your referral should make clear what is being investigated.
Does the scan use radiation or contrast?
No. A standard vascular ultrasound uses sound waves. It does not use ionising radiation or need a contrast injection.
Will both legs be scanned?
It depends on your referral and the problem being investigated. Scope Radiology will confirm whether one limb, both limbs, or another area needs to be scanned.
Can I return to normal activity afterwards?
Usually, yes. The ultrasound itself generally needs no recovery time. If the scan finds a problem, or you have significant symptoms, please follow your treating doctor's advice about activity and treatment.
Can a normal scan rule out every circulation problem?
No. A normal scan only answers questions about the vessels and area that were scanned. Small-vessel disease, or a problem outside that area, may need a different assessment, particularly if your symptoms continue.
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Cardiology clinics across Melbourne.
Vascular Ultrasound
Ashburton
ashburton
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Boronia
boronia
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 7 Day ECG Holter Monitor | $250, plus a $50 refundable deposit $79.50 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Coolaroo
coolaroo
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Cranbourne
cranbourne
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Dandenong
dandenong
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Keysborough
keysborough
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Lalor
lalor
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
M-City Clayton
clayton
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Melbourne
melbourne
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 7 Day ECG Holter Monitor | $250, plus a $50 refundable deposit $79.50 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Moonee Ponds
moonee-ponds
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Mooroolbark
mooroolbark
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Pakenham
pakenham
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Pacemaker Clinic | Bulk billed* |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
St Albans
st-albans
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Sunnybank
sunnybank
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $100, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 |
| HeartBug | Privately billed |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Werribee
werribee
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
Wheelers Hill
wheelers-hill
Services at this clinic
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Cardiologist Consultation | Privately billed |
| Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| Stress Echocardiogram | Bulk billed* |
| 24 Hour ECG Holter Monitor | Bulk billed*, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| 24 Hour BP Monitor | $120, plus a $50 refundable deposit |
| ECG | $40 $8.20 out of pocket with Medicare |
| HeartBug | $150 |
| Sleep and respiratory services | Provided by Sleepscope |
*Bulk billing applies if you meet the Medicare (MBS) criteria and have a valid referral. Pensioners and Health Care Card holders may also be entitled to discounted rates. Please confirm costs when you book.
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