A lower extremity venous ultrasound screens for deep vein thrombosis and venous insufficiency — conditions that are common, often silent, and potentially life-threatening if a clot travels to the lungs.[1]
The Study
A venous ultrasound is a painless scan of the veins in your legs that checks for blood clots (deep vein thrombosis) and valve problems that cause swelling or poor circulation. It uses sound waves with no radiation or needles, takes 30 to 45 minutes, and results are reviewed by a board-certified cardiologist and delivered within 24 to 48 hours.
Leg swelling has many causes. This scan separates the ones that need treating today from the ones that do not.
It is also indicated after recent surgery or a stretch of immobility, with a personal or family history of clots, or if you are on long-term anticoagulation and due for follow-up.
Not sure this is the right study for you? Compare all six side by side, or take the two-minute health score — it asks about your history and points you to the study that fits.
What to Expect
Many people have never had this scan before. Here is exactly what happens — no surprises, no anxiety.
No radiation. No needles. No discomfort. An ultrasound uses sound waves — the same technology used in obstetric imaging. It is entirely safe and non-invasive.
No preparation required. You may be asked to lie in slightly different positions to get the best views of each vessel.
From the groin down to the calf, the sonographer compresses the vein at intervals to check for clots blocking normal flow.
Color Doppler shows the direction and speed of blood moving through each vein — identifying abnormalities in real time.
We check for venous insufficiency — leaking valves that cause blood to pool and flow backward, leading to swelling and discomfort.
Your report details any clots found, venous reflux findings, and recommended next steps.
What We're Looking For
These conditions often develop without symptoms for years. Early detection changes the outcome dramatically.
Why BlackPoint
Quality cardiovascular imaging shouldn't require a hospital visit, a referral, or a weeks-long wait. Our sonographer performs cardiovascular imaging daily alongside physicians — clinical-grade diagnostics delivered with genuine convenience.
“Manny was professional and informative. The appointment felt clean, quiet and calming. I was able to get scheduled quickly and received my results the very next day.”
— Jennifer S.“He was very professional, kind, and took the time to explain everything he was doing during the procedure, which really helped put me at ease. I received my results within 48 hours, which was impressive. Excellent experience overall.”
— Meagan B.“Manny was respectful and knowledgeable. I was brought in on time and was kept informed of what he was doing along with detailed explanations. The room was clean, quiet, and private. I received my results within 48 hours with a follow up email from Manny. Highly recommend.”
— Wanda K.Verified Google reviews from patients across Midcoast Maine. Read all reviews →
Common Questions
Asymmetric leg swelling — one leg noticeably larger than the other — is one of the most important warning signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). A blood clot forming in the deep veins of the leg obstructs venous return, causing swelling on that side only. This symptom warrants urgent evaluation with a venous duplex ultrasound.
Common signs of a DVT include swelling, warmth, redness, and aching in one leg — but up to half of all DVTs cause no symptoms at all.[3] The only reliable way to confirm or rule out a blood clot is with a venous duplex ultrasound. If you have any concern, do not wait — undetected DVT can progress to a pulmonary embolism.
Yes. Prolonged immobility during long-distance travel — flights over four hours or extended car rides — slows venous blood flow in the legs, increasing the risk of DVT. If you develop leg swelling or pain within days of travel, a venous duplex ultrasound can confirm or rule out a clot.
Yes. BlackPoint Diagnostics does not require a physician referral. Book directly online — evenings after 7pm and weekends. Results reviewed by a board-certified cardiologist and delivered within 24—48 hours.
$397 flat — no facility fees, no hidden costs. We come to your home, workplace, or preferred location in Southern Maine.
Book Your Scan
$397 all-inclusive. No referral, no insurance, no facility fees. We come to you across Southern Maine.
Further Reading & References
Leg Swelling and Blood Clot Testing in Maine · DVT Symptoms — When Leg Swelling Requires an Ultrasound · check your cardiovascular risk score · Download our free heart health guide