A complex duplex scan
A full vascular check-up relies on a non-invasive medical imaging technique called a duplex scan (or duplex ultrasound). It is the reference examination to assess the health of the venous and arterial system in the legs, whether for preventive screening, a symptomatic assessment, or preparation before a vascular treatment.
At Kensington Clinic, this examination is performed by Dr Wissem Abdellaoui, a phlebologist trained at Hôpital Européen Georges-Pompidou in Paris, in 45 minutes, with immediate verbal feedback and a detailed written report issued shortly after.
What is a duplex scan?
A duplex scan, also known as duplex ultrasound, is an imaging technique that combines two ultrasound modalities in a single examination:
- B-mode ultrasound produces a real-time image of the vessels (veins and arteries), their diameter and their walls
- Colour Doppler measures the direction, speed and quality of blood flow inside these vessels
The combination of the two (hence “duplex”) allows precise identification of structural abnormalities (dilated veins, arterial plaques, thrombosis) and functional abnormalities (venous reflux, arterial stenosis, valvular insufficiency).
The examination is completely non-invasive, painless, with no injection and no radiation. It can be repeated as often as needed, making it the first-line vascular examination in the vast majority of clinical situations.
Venous and arterial duplex: two complementary examinations
A full vascular check-up at Kensington International Clinic systematically includes both sides of the leg circulatory system.
The venous duplex scan...
assesses the superficial venous network (great and small saphenous veins, collaterals) and the deep network (femoral vein, popliteal vein). It maps reflux, identifies diseased veins and screens for possible venous thrombosis. It is the essential examination before any varicose vein treatment (sclerotherapy, EVLA, phlebectomy), and the reference test to rule out deep vein thrombosis in cases of calf pain.
The arterial duplex scan...
assesses the quality of arterial flow to the legs and feet. It screens for peripheral arterial disease (PAD), arterial stenoses and atherosclerotic plaques. It is particularly indicated in patients who smoke, have diabetes, high blood pressure or a cardiovascular history.
We offer both examinations in a single appointment, providing a comprehensive vascular map and avoiding multiple visits.
When should you have a vascular check-up?
A vascular check-up is indicated in several clinical situations, and can also be carried out as part of preventive care.
Venous symptoms
- Heaviness, fatigue or swelling of the legs at the end of the day
- Visible varicose veins or spider veins that have appeared or worsened recently
- Night cramps or restless legs
- Isolated calf pain, to rule out a thrombosis
- Itching, skin discolouration around the ankles, varicose eczema
Arterial symptoms
- Pain on walking that eases at rest (intermittent claudication)
- Cold foot, abnormal paleness
- Foot pain at night, relieved by hanging the legs down
- Non-healing wound on the foot or leg
Preventive screening
- Family history of venous disease or deep vein thrombosis
- Pregnancy or post-partum
- Check before long-haul travel or surgery
- Follow-up of untreated varicose veins
- Cardiovascular assessment in at-risk patients (smoking, diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol)
Some patients also consult before an aesthetic treatment of spider veins, to make sure there is no deeper reflux that should be addressed first.
Your vascular check-up at Kensington International Clinic
The examination is performed by Dr Wissem Abdellaoui, a French-speaking phlebologist trained at Hôpital Européen Georges-Pompidou (AP-HP Paris), registered with the General Medical Council (GMC no. 7852217) and a member of the French tradition of phlebology that our vascular department carries forward.
His approach reflects the French school: taking time for a careful clinical examination before placing the probe, correlating imaging findings with the patient’s symptoms, and explaining results in clear terms with their therapeutic implications. The examination is conducted in French, English or Arabic according to your preference.
At the end of the appointment, you leave with:
- A complete duplex map of your venous and arterial system
- A detailed medical report
- Tailored therapeutic recommendations, from simple venous hygiene advice to specialist treatment
How is the duplex scan performed?
The vascular check-up takes around 45 minutes and is carried out at our Kensington premises, in a dedicated examination room.
- Initial clinical interview. Dr Abdellaoui reviews your medical history, symptoms and expectations. This stage guides the examination towards the areas to be explored in priority.
- Clinical examination standing. A visual and palpatory examination of the legs in the standing position identifies visible varicose veins and flags the areas to explore by ultrasound.
- Venous duplex. The venous duplex is performed in the standing position to assess reflux, then lying down to assess the patency of the deep network. An ultrasound probe is placed on the skin with conductive gel, completely painlessly.
- Arterial duplex. The arterial examination is then carried out lying down, exploring the main arterial axes of the lower limbs.
- Results and recommendations. Results are explained in real time. At the end of the examination, Dr Abdellaoui explains what has been found and proposes, if needed, a management strategy.
You then receive a written medical report, which can be shared with your GP or other specialists.
Vascular check-up fees in London
Service | Duration | Fee |
Full vascular check-up (venous + arterial duplex + report) | 45 min | £450 |
Venous duplex only (outside full protocol) | 30 min | £290 |
Post-treatment duplex follow-up | 20 min | £175 |
Vascular follow-up consultation (no imaging) | 20 min | £175 |
Book a vascular check-up in London
Kensington Clinic is located at 2 North Terrace, London SW3 2BA, six minutes’ walk from South Kensington station and eight minutes from Knightsbridge. Dr Abdellaoui consults in French, English and Arabic.
To book a full vascular check-up, call us on 020 7589 9321, email contact@kic.london, or use our online booking system.
Booking: appointments can be made directly, without GP referral. A deposit may be requested at the time of booking.
Insurance cover: most international private health insurers (Bupa, Cigna, AXA, Allianz, WPA) cover vascular check-ups, particularly when requested for suspected thrombosis or marked venous symptoms. Please check with your insurer before the appointment.
