Lower Extremity Venous Study (LEV)

A Venous Doppler test is an ultrasound that uses sound waves to create a picture of your blood flow. The most common use of this test is to search for blood clots. It’s also commonly used for people with varicose veins.

Your doctor may order this test if you have leg pain or swelling, or if you have had a previous history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Left untreated, these blood clots can break off and pass into your lungs and potentially cause a pulmonary embolism.

Before your test:
There is no specific preparation for this test. Please allow approximately 30–60 minutes for the test dependent on whether we have scheduled you for testing on one or both legs / arms. 

During the test:
Gel will be applied to the skin over the extremity to be examined.
 A transducer (a small device that produces sound waves) will be pressed against the skin to record the images.

After the test:
You may resume your normal activities immediately following the test.