Ultrasound is thought to be the most essential tool in vein care. It is the extension of our eyes and hands in the diagnosing of vein problems. Patients find the ultrasound exam to be comfortable; it’s non-invasive, after all. Not only is it used during the mapping of a patients venous pattern/diagnosing the actual vein disorders, ultrasound is used throughout the prescribed treatment plan, acting as the eyes of the physician/provider. While diagnostic ultrasound is performed to guide us in establishing a treatment plan for repair of the problem, ultrasound is also a very important part of actual procedures. Endovenous ablation (thermal closing of the vein) requires the use of ultrasound to guide therapy, allowing visualization of the location of the connection of unhealthy vein to healthy vein. Without ultrasound, treatment would not have the successful outcomes we have today. Many patients require ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy to close tortuous leaking superficial veins, perforators and smaller ‘saphenous’ veins of the lower leg. This treatment may be performed in conjunction with an ablation procedure or may be the only treatment required. Ultrasound allows excellent visualization of the defective veins and therefore very precise vein access and effective treatment outcomes. Following an ablation or ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy treatment the physician will again, at specific time intervals, use ultrasound to evaluate the effectiveness of the treated vessels. Modern bedside ultrasound equipment along with our electronic medical records allows us to review photos, ultrasound images and records on all subsequent visits. This promotes the best continuity of care and results in very satisfied patients.
