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Vascular Ultrasound (Doppler Scan)

The Vascular Ultrasound department is open from 8.00am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday.  We are based at the University Hospital of Wales on the Ground Floor - see the Doppler map for directions:

Doppler Map

Our team:

  • Dr Kate Bryant
  • Dr Paul Williams
  • Ellie Blaxland
  • Emily Morgan
  • Shannon Halliwell
  • Dr Michal Pruski
  • Amy Wlaznik

They are supported by a team of healthcare assistants:

  • Lisa Evans
  • Lucy Thompson
  • Saba Sheikh

What is a Doppler Ultrasound Scan?

This is an ultrasound scan sometimes referred to as a duplex or Doppler. This scan uses ultrasound to produce images of the blood vessels throughout the body. It is a safe and effective way to assess blood flow in arteries and veins. This test is painless and does not use any radiation or needles. There are no risks associated.  

How is the scan performed?

There is no preparation needed and you may eat and drink as usual prior to the investigation

A clinical scientist (who may be male or female) will perform and interpret your ultrasound scan. You may be asked to remove an item of clothing during the scan however dignity will be maintained throughout. The scan will be performed with you led down or seated on the scanning couch. Ultrasound gel will be applied and the ultrasound probe will moved along the area being scanned. Some pressure may be applied. The clinical scientist will comment on the findings and write a report for the requesting doctor.

Types of vascular assessment:

  • Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm (AAA) surveillance
  • Ankle Brachial Pressure Index (ABPI)
  • Carotid arteries for suspected Transient Ischaemic Attack (TIA) or stroke
  • Endovascular Aneurysm Repair (EVAR) surveillance post AAA repair
  • Fistula scans, fistula flow studies and vascular access
  • Graft surveillance post vascular surgery
  • Renal artery ultrasound
  • Toe Brachial Index (TBI)
  • Upper and lower limb veins for Deep Vein thrombosis (DVT)
  • Upper and Lower limb arteries for peripheral vascular disease (PAD)
  • Upper limb arteries and veins for Thoracic Outlet syndrome (TOS)
  • Varicose veins scans and pre surgery marking of veins

Patient Information sheets

Please see below information for each scan type:

ABPI

Abdominal

Aorto-iliac

pre-transplant

Arm DVT

Arterial

Carotid

DVT

EVAR

Fistula

Graft

IJV

SMA

Renal

TOS

Vein map

Varicose veins

DVT Clinic

This is a haematology run outpatient service for local GPs, unscheduled care and outpatient clinics in the Cardiff and Vale UHB area, who have patients that present with symptoms of a suspected lower limb or upper limb DVT.

The referring doctor can call and arrange an appointment for the same day or next working day depending on availability. The patient will be assessed by a DVT specialist nurse, then a Doppler Scan performed and the patient treated if a DVT is found. 

The service is based in Medical Physics and is open 8.30am to 4.30 pm, Monday to Friday. 

Contact details

For booking enquiries: 029 2184 3547.

DVT clinic enquires: 029 2184 8729

 

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