Location
What's included
✓ Comprehensive ultrasound examination
✓ Detailed digital medical report
✓ High-quality diagnostic images
✓ Advanced imaging technology
✓ Same-day results
What is it?
An upper limb arterial ultrasound is a detailed assessment of the arteries supplying blood to the arms and hands. The scan uses ultrasound and Doppler imaging to evaluate blood flow and identify any narrowing, blockage or other abnormalities affecting the circulation.
Significant arterial disease in the upper limbs is less common than in the legs, but it can occur and may lead to symptoms such as arm pain, fatigue, weakness, cold hands or reduced exercise tolerance. The examination can also help investigate differences in blood pressure between the arms and certain circulation-related symptoms affecting the hands and fingers.
This scan is also useful for assessing patients with known arterial disease, previous arterial procedures or concerns regarding blood flow to the arms.
What will it assess?
Major upper-limb arteries
Subclavian, axillary, brachial, radial + ulnar arteries
Arterial narrowing or blockage
Narrowing, occlusion, disturbed or turbulent flow + haemodynamic significance
Atherosclerotic plaque
Plaque build-up or associated arterial disease
Arterial blood flow
Flow direction, velocity + areas of reduced or abnormal flow
Blood flow to the arm, hand or fingers
Reduced blood flow and circulation-related abnormalities affecting the upper limb
Experiencing any
of these symptoms?
An upper limb arterial screening can help assess the cause
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Arm pain
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Arm heaviness or fatigue
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Upper-limb numbness or tingling
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Cold hands or fingers
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Arm cramping or reduced grip
→
One-sided upper-limb symptoms
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Blood-pressure difference between arms
What to expect
at your appointment
1. Arrival
Convenient visitor parking is available at the rear of the building.
Upon arrival at our clinic on Cathedral Road, you’ll be welcomed into our waiting area by our receptionist, where you can relax while we prepare for your appointment.
2. Meet your vascular scientist
Meet your scientist prior to your scan, and discuss your symptoms, concerns, or reason for attending.
This is an opportunity to ask questions and ensure you feel informed and reassured before your examination.
3. Your scan
(30–45 minutes)
The scientist will explain findings throughout the examination, using advanced Samsung R20 ultrasound technology, providing exceptional image clarity and diagnostic precision.
4. Receive your results
A detailed digital report and images will be provided promptly.
Your scientist will answer any questions you might have, and plan the next steps for your care, helping you move forward with confidence and peace of mind.
Trusted specialist care
every step of the way
Scans are performed by a consultant vascular scientist. You can request a chaperone to be present throughout the examination.
Rhodri Furlong
Vascular Scientist
How to prepare
for your ultrasound scan
Continue taking your usual medications
unless advised otherwise by your specialist
Do you take blood-thinning medication?
It's important to let us know before the procedure
Fasting is not required
You can eat as normal prior to your appointment
Wear comfortable clothing
which allows us to access the area being examined
Diabetic or unable to fast?
Please contact the clinic before your appointment so alternative arrangements can be discussed
Testimonials from our patients
Beautiful clinic, friendly staff and immediate results.
My scan really helped put my mind at ease after some worrying symptoms. I voiced my concerns and they got me in immediately for a scan and then went through the results clearly with me in the same appointment.
I like that it wasn't rushed at all and they make sure you understand everything and even send you your results after.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 24 May 2026
My visit to Cardiff Ultrasound Clinic was everything I hoped for from start to finish.
I was looked after by staff extremely well by the friendly, professional and polite staff. Every care was taken to make sure I was comfortable, informed and ultimately reassured. In depth verbal and visual feedback of my conditions were explained in detail and I was encouraged to ask as many questions as I needed.
The clinic itself is immaculate and comfortable and I couldn't have been more happy with my overall experience. Thank you!!!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 11 May 2026
My appointment which was lovely and made me feel really safe and cared for.
The clinic its self is immaculate and nicely decorated which all adds to making what could have been a really stressful process as calm and reassuring as possible.
Everyone I spoke with clearly has a wealth of knowledge and experience. So if you are looking for quick, considered, knowledgeable answers, definitely book with Cardiff Ultrasound Clinic.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 11 May 2026
FAQs
We want you to feel reassured and fully-informed before your appointment. If you can’t find the answer you’re looking for, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us.
In many cases, you do not need a referral to book an ultrasound scan. Cardiff Ultrasound Clinic accepts self-referrals for a wide range of adult examinations.
If you have been referred by your GP, consultant, physiotherapist or other healthcare professional, referrals can be submitted via a form, or emailed to referrals@cardiffultrasound.co.uk.
Specialist referrals are required for all paediatric imaging and injection procedures. If you are unsure whether a referral is required, our clinical team will be happy to advise you before booking to ensure you receive the most appropriate and safe examination.
We aim to offer rapid access to ultrasound imaging, with same-day and next-day appointments often available.
Examinations are delivered in a calm, unhurried clinical environment.
All examinations are performed by consultant radiologists or highly experienced specialist sonographers. See our team →
Scans are carried out by clinicians working within their area of specialist practice. For example, abdominal and hepatobiliary scans are performed by radiologists specialising in gastrointestinal imaging, while musculoskeletal scans are performed by clinicians experienced in MSK imaging.
This specialist-led approach helps ensure focused expertise, accuracy and high-quality reporting.
Findings are explained during your appointment following the scan, allowing you to leave with a clear understanding of the results.
You will also receive a follow-up digital report, including high-resolution images, within 24 hours.
If further assessment or treatment is required, we can help facilitate onward referral to an appropriate specialist.
Ready to book your private scan?
Book online in minutes, or contact us if you’d like help choosing the right scan.