Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs is an ultrasound exam that assesses venous circulation in the legs, analysing the veins and blood flow in real time.
At NRD, in Lisbon, you can have your Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs performed in a clinical setting specialised in diagnostic imaging, with suitable technology for assessing venous conditions such as varicose veins, venous insufficiency or suspected deep vein thrombosis.
What is it and what is it used for?
Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs, also known as Venous Doppler of the Lower Limbs, is an exam that combines conventional ultrasound with Doppler technology.
Ultrasound allows the veins in the legs to be visualised, while Doppler assesses the direction and speed of blood flow. This makes it possible to identify changes in venous circulation, such as chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins or deep vein thrombosis.
This exam is particularly useful for assessing whether blood is circulating properly through the veins of the lower limbs and whether there are signs of reflux, obstruction or clot formation.
What is the price of Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs?
The price of Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs may vary depending on the agreement, subsystem, insurance or health plan used.
At NRD, this exam can be performed under different agreements and conventions:
- SNS / ARS: the patient pays no fee if the exam is performed at NRD with a prescription from the Health Centre;
- ADSE: the patient only pays the co-payment, usually €15;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, and other insurance companies;
- Health plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Continente Wells, and other health plans.
There is also a special price list for clinics with an agreement.
How is it performed?
To perform Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs, you will be asked to remove your trousers or skirt in order to expose the area of the legs to be examined, and to lie down on the examination couch.
A gel is applied directly to the skin or to the ultrasound probe to facilitate contact and improve image quality. The healthcare professional then moves the probe along the legs, assessing the veins and blood flow.
During the exam, you may be asked to change position slightly or to cooperate with small breathing or compression manoeuvres, allowing a more detailed assessment of venous circulation.
The exam is painless, does not use radiation and, once completed, you can resume your usual routine.
What does it detect?
Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs can detect and assess several changes in venous circulation, including:
- chronic venous insufficiency;
- varicose veins and dilated veins;
- venous reflux;
- deep vein thrombosis;
- obstructions or changes in venous flow;
- signs of poor venous circulation;
- changes associated with oedema or swelling of the lower limbs;
- venous changes after surgery or previous treatments.
This exam allows the doctor to understand whether there is a change in the return of blood from the legs to the heart and to guide the appropriate diagnosis or treatment.
In which cases is it indicated?
This exam may be indicated when there are symptoms or signs suggesting changes in the venous circulation of the legs.
It is often recommended in cases of:
- leg pain;
- a feeling of heaviness or tiredness in the lower limbs;
- swelling of the legs, ankles or feet;
- visible varicose veins;
- suspected deep vein thrombosis;
- changes in skin colour in the legs;
- a feeling of heat, tightness or discomfort in one leg;
- venous ulcers or wounds that are difficult to heal;
- assessment before or after venous treatments;
- follow-up of known venous disease.
It may also be requested by your doctor to clarify persistent symptoms or to assess the need for vascular treatment.
Preparation for Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs
Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs is a simple, non-invasive exam that does not require any special preparation. However, to make the exam easier to perform and ensure an adequate assessment, you should take the following recommendations into account before your appointment.
| Topic | Recommendation |
| Exam prescription | You should bring the exam prescription in paper format, whenever applicable. |
| Fasting | Fasting is not required for this exam. |
| Clothing | Comfortable clothing that is easy to remove is recommended, as the legs will need to be exposed. |
| Creams or lotions | Whenever possible, avoid applying creams, oils or lotions to the legs on the day of the exam, to facilitate the ultrasound assessment. |
| Previous exams | You should bring any relevant previous exams, if available. |
| Usual medication | You should not stop taking your usual medication, unless otherwise instructed by your doctor. |
| Early arrival | In general, it is enough to arrive a few minutes before the scheduled time, according to the instructions given when booking. |
| After the exam | You can resume your usual routine, with no need for special care. |
NRD will provide you with all the necessary instructions when booking your exam.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the results of the Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs within 7 days after the exam, by email or on paper at the clinic.
On the day of the exam, you will be given the necessary information about how to collect or receive your results.
Where to do it?
Venous Echo-Doppler of the Lower Limbs can be done at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070-060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)