an angiogram – where a liquid called a contrast agent is injected into a vein in your arm.This can identify where in your arteries there are blockages or narrowed areas an ultrasound scan – where sound waves are used to build up a picture of arteries in your leg.the restriction of blood supply in your leg is severe enough that treatment, such as surgery, may be requiredĪdditional hospital-based tests that may be carried out include:.you do not fit the expected profile of somebody with PAD – for example, you are younger than 60 and have never smoked.For example, if you have leg pain but your ABPI score is normal

there's uncertainty about the diagnosis.In most cases, the GP will be able to confirm a diagnosis of PAD by doing a physical examination, asking about your symptoms and checking your ABPI score.įurther testing is usually only required if: This is usually carried out in hospital because most GP surgeries do not have the facilities to perform this test. This is to see the effect of physical activity on your circulation. In some cases, ABPI may be carried out after you run on a treadmill or cycle on an exercise bike. This would make the result of the ABPI less than 1. However, if you have PAD, the blood pressure in your ankle will be lower because of a reduction in blood supply. This would make the result of your ABPI 1. If your circulation is healthy, the blood pressure in both parts of your body should be exactly or almost the same. after your scan, the GP will divide your blood pressure's second results (from your ankles) by the first results (from your arms).A Doppler probe uses sound waves to determine the blood flow in your arteries Ultrasound does not use ionizing radiation and has no known harmful effects. It is commonly used to search for blood clots, especially in the veins of the leg a condition often referred to as deep vein thrombosis. while you lie on your back, the GP or practice nurse will measure the blood pressure in your upper arms and ankles using a cuff and a Doppler probe. Venous ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of the veins in the body.The ankle brachial pressure index (ABPI) test is widely used to diagnose PAD, as well as assess how well you're responding to treatment. The GP may also ask about your personal and family medical histories. the pulse in your leg being very weak or undetectable.If the GP suspects peripheral arterial disease (PAD), they'll first carry out a physical examination of your legs.

Doppler test for legs cost