Specialist Vascular Ultrasound in Cairns
Specialist Vascular Ultrasound provides specialised vascular diagnostic imaging in Cairns, as an integral part of the practice of Dr Anthony Freeman, Vascular, Endovascular and Venous Surgeon.
Scans are performed on site by our sonographer, Jovin, and reported alongside your specialist consultation.
For appointments, referrals and full information about our vascular services:
Imaging and specialist review in one visit
Vascular ultrasound is the first investigation for most arterial and venous problems. It uses sound waves rather than radiation, needs no injection or contrast in most cases, and shows both the structure of a blood vessel and the flow of blood through it.
Because the scan is performed in our rooms, your imaging and your specialist review can happen in the same visit rather than as two separate appointments at two separate locations.
Scans performed on site
Venous duplex ultrasound
Used to assess the veins of the legs. A venous duplex maps which veins are affected, measures how far reflux extends, and identifies whether the deep or superficial system is involved.
It is the investigation behind symptoms such as aching or heaviness in the legs by the end of the day, swelling around the ankle, night cramps, skin discolouration around the ankle, venous eczema, and ulceration. It is also used to assess for deep vein thrombosis.
The findings determine whether treatment is warranted and, if it is, which approach suits the pattern of disease.
Arterial duplex ultrasound
Used to assess blood supply to the legs. An arterial duplex identifies where a narrowing or blockage sits and how much it restricts flow.
It is the investigation behind symptoms such as cramping in the calf or thigh on walking that eases with rest, cold or discoloured feet, rest pain at night, and wounds on the foot or lower leg that are slow to heal. It has a particular role in diabetes, where reduced arterial supply contributes to foot ulceration and where early assessment supports limb preservation.
What happens during your scan
You will be asked to undress to your underwear for a leg study, and a gown is provided. Warm gel is applied to the skin and a handheld probe is passed over the area being examined.
Leg vein studies are usually performed standing, because reflux is most apparent against gravity. You may be asked to stand for part of the examination and to lie down for the rest. Arterial studies are performed lying down.
A vascular ultrasound takes longer than most other ultrasound examinations, commonly 30 to 45 minutes for a full leg study, and longer where both legs are being assessed. Allow time for this when planning your visit.
Venous and arterial duplex studies require no fasting or special preparation. Wear clothing that is easy to remove from the waist down.
You may feel firm pressure from the probe, and some pressure over a tender vein or an ulcerated area may be uncomfortable. Tell the sonographer if it is, and the examination can be adjusted.
For referring practitioners
Referrals may be sent by fax to (07) 4254 5008 or through the referral form on this site.
A referral is most useful when it states the clinical question, the affected side, relevant history including previous venous or arterial intervention, diabetes status, and any anticoagulation.
Imaging is reported alongside specialist consultation, so patients referred for assessment can generally have investigation and specialist opinion addressed together rather than across separate appointments.
Contact Us
Suite 9, Level 1, 193 Lake Street, Cairns QLD 4870
Phone: (07) 4254 5006 | Fax: (07) 4254 5008
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