What is a Venous – DVT Bilateral Scan?

A Venous – DVT Bilateral scan is a duplex Doppler ultrasound that evaluates the deep venous system in both legs, including the femoral, popliteal, and calf veins. The scan assesses blood flow, vein compressibility, and the presence of clots.

This investigation is the first-line and gold-standard imaging test for suspected DVT. It is non-invasive, painless, and does not involve radiation. Scanning both legs is important because clots can be present on either side, even if symptoms are only felt in one limb.

Early diagnosis of DVT is critical to prevent complications such as pulmonary embolism.

When a Venous – DVT Bilateral Scan is recommended

A bilateral DVT scan is recommended when there are symptoms or risk factors suggestive of deep vein thrombosis.

You may be referred for this scan if you:

• Have leg swelling, usually in one or both legs
• Experience leg pain, tenderness, or cramping
• Notice redness or warmth in the calf or thigh
• Have sudden leg swelling after travel or surgery
• Are immobile or recently hospitalised
• Are pregnant or postpartum
• Have a history of blood clots
• Require urgent exclusion of DVT

Benefits of a Venous – DVT Bilateral Scan

• Detects deep vein thrombosis accurately
  Gold-standard test for DVT diagnosis.
• Assesses both legs comprehensively
  Identifies clots even when symptoms are one-sided.
• Non-invasive and painless
  No needles or radiation.
• Supports urgent clinical decision-making
  Enables rapid treatment where needed.
• Evaluates blood flow and vein function
  Identifies obstruction or reduced circulation.
• Safe and repeatable
  Suitable for follow-up monitoring.
• Prevents serious complications
  Early detection reduces embolism risk.
• Performed by trained vascular specialists
  Ensures accurate and reliable results.

How the Venous – DVT Bilateral Scan is performed

The scan is performed by a trained vascular sonographer using ultrasound equipment.

• You will usually lie on an examination couch
• Gel is applied to the skin
• A handheld probe is moved along both legs
• Gentle pressure is applied to assess vein compressibility

The scan typically takes 30–45 minutes, and you can resume normal activities immediately afterwards.

Understanding your Venous – DVT Bilateral Scan results

No evidence of DVT

Veins are compressible with normal blood flow and no clot detected.

Typical report:

• No evidence of deep vein thrombosis

Acute DVT detected

A clot is identified within one or more deep veins, affecting blood flow.

Typical report:

• Acute deep vein thrombosis present

Urgent medical management is usually required.

Chronic or previous clot changes

The scan may show residual changes from a previous DVT, such as scarring or reduced vein elasticity.

Typical report:

• Chronic post-thrombotic changes noted

Results are interpreted alongside symptoms and clinical history.