What is a Varicose Vein Scan for One Limb?

A Varicose Vein Scan – One Limb is a duplex Doppler ultrasound focused on the venous system of a single leg. It evaluates blood flow within the superficial and deep veins and checks whether the vein valves are working properly.

The scan identifies venous reflux, vein enlargement, and circulation abnormalities that contribute to varicose veins, leg discomfort, swelling, and skin changes. It is completely non-invasive, painless, and radiation-free.

A one-limb scan is ideal when symptoms or visible varicose veins are limited to one leg, allowing for a targeted and efficient assessment.

When a Varicose Vein Scan – One Limb is recommended

A one-limb varicose vein scan is recommended when venous symptoms are localised to a single leg.

You may be referred for this scan if you:

• Have visible varicose veins on one leg
• Experience aching, heaviness, or throbbing in one leg
• Notice swelling in one ankle or calf
• Have skin discolouration or itching on one leg
• Experience leg cramps or restlessness at night
• Are being assessed before vein treatment
• Need follow-up imaging after previous vein treatment
• Have symptoms affecting one side only

Benefits of a Varicose Vein Scan – One Limb

• Targeted assessment of the affected leg
  Focuses on the symptomatic limb only.
• Identifies faulty vein valves
  Detects venous reflux accurately.
• Differentiates superficial and deep vein disease
  Essential for safe treatment planning.
• Non-invasive and painless
  No needles, injections, or radiation.
• Supports treatment decisions
  Guides compression therapy or procedures.
• Detects early venous disease
  Even before veins become visibly prominent.
• Quick and well tolerated
  Usually completed within 20–30 minutes.
• Safe and repeatable
  Suitable for monitoring over time.

How the Varicose Vein Scan – One Limb is performed

Home-Based Ultrasound Scans (UK-wide)

• Book your ultrasound appointment online or by phone
• A qualified clinician travels to your home or chosen location
• The scan is performed in the comfort and privacy of your home
• Scan duration varies by examination type (typically 10–30 minutes)
• Findings are explained during or shortly after the scan

Important:
All ultrasound scans are provided as home-visit services only. This service is available UK-wide, allowing you to access diagnostic imaging without attending a clinic.

Understanding your Varicose Vein Scan – One Limb results

Normal venous function

Blood flows normally toward the heart with no valve leakage.

Typical report:

• No evidence of venous reflux

Superficial venous reflux

Faulty valves cause blood to flow backwards, contributing to varicose veins.

Typical report:

• Superficial venous insufficiency detected

Deep vein involvement

The scan may show abnormalities affecting deep veins, which can influence treatment options.

Typical report:

• Deep venous involvement noted

Results are interpreted alongside symptoms to guide appropriate management.