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Leg veins

Venous reflux study

Evaluating valve function and blood flow in the leg veins.

A venous reflux study evaluates backward blood flow in the leg veins and the function of their valves. It uses a dedicated protocol that may require standing or an upright position during part of the exam.

What it looks for

  • Whether valves close cleanly or let blood fall back
  • How long backward flow lasts at each site
  • Which segments are affected: deep, superficial, or the perforating veins between them
  • The size of the vein above and below a leaking valve

Step by step

What to expect.

View the exam animation or select a stage to learn more.

TOWARDTHE HEARTVALVECALF SQUEEZEVALVE CLOSESREFLUX IS TIMEDFLOW DIRECTION OVER TIME

Interactive walkthrough

Step 1 of 4

Choose a step to explore

Exam information

Common questions.

Additional information about the procedure and your visit.

Will I need to stand?

Standing or upright positioning may be needed to assess reflux. Tell the sonographer if you have difficulty standing or feel lightheaded during the exam.

Why is the calf compressed?

It is a firm squeeze lasting about a second, repeated at several levels. If your calf is tender, a cuff can often be used instead of a hand.

What do the screen colors show?

The color display represents blood-flow direction relative to the transducer. The clinician interprets it together with the images and Doppler measurements.

Getting ready

Before you come in.

You may be asked to change position or stand for part of the study.

Instructions sent with your appointment take priority over anything on this page, even where the two differ.

Afterwards

When it is over.

The gel is wiped off and you can sit down and rest for a moment before leaving. There are no restrictions afterward.

The practice will publish who interprets the study and how results are shared after its reporting workflow is approved.

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