The first step in selecting an effective treatment for vein conditions is an accurate assessment of the underlying cause of the problem. The most common tool used for this purpose is duplex ultrasound, a non-invasive test that can accurate evaluate the overall health of the vascular system. Through this evaluation, which is frequently performed at Incredible Veins Skin & Body, Dr. Ebrahimi can pinpoint the patient’s specific vascular condition and recommend a treatment program tailored to that diagnosis as well as the unique needs of the patient.
What is Duplex Ultrasound?
Venous duplex ultrasound uses sound waves to create realistic images of the vascular system. Duplex ultrasound actually combines two different types of technology:
- Traditional Ultrasound – uses sound wave to produce pictures of the blood vessels
- Doppler Ultrasound – able to record moving objects, like the flow of blood through the vessels
The combination of these technologies creates the best diagnostic tool for determining venous blood flow in the legs and to discover potential abnormalities, such as narrowing of a vessel, formation of a blood clot or venous insufficiency (impaired blood flow).
Why is Duplex Ultrasound Prescribed?
There may be a number of reasons why Dr. Ebrahimi would recommend a duplex ultrasound examination:
- Discover the cause of physical symptoms like leg pain or swelling
- Determine underlying cause of visible varicose veins
- Document cause of varicose veins for insurance purposes
- Evaluate the best treatment course and the specific location requiring treatment
- To assist with some types of vein treatments
During your initial consultation, Dr. Ebrahimi will discuss the details of your duplex ultrasound examination with you, including reasons why it is recommended, what to expect from the procedure and results expected from the evaluation.
About the Procedure
Duplex ultrasound is a non-invasive, completely painless procedure. A special gel is placed on the skin and a handheld device, known as a transducer is placed in the gel to send sound waves to the vessels below. You will be asked to lie still during the examination, but you will not feel anything more than the transducer moving across your skin.
A duplex ultrasound usually takes around 15-30 minutes to complete. During the examination, you will hear a swishing sound, which is blood moving through the vessels. The ultrasound technician will take measurements and make recordings of blood movement so Dr. Ebrahimi has a precise picture of what is happening in your vessels to determine which treatment will be most effective for you.
After the Exam
There is no recovery period after duplex ultrasound. Dr. Ebrahimi will share his findings from the examination with you and recommend the best course of treatment. You will have the opportunity to ask questions so that you feel comfortable with the diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
Duplex ultrasound in a non-invasive, highly effective way to diagnose vascular conditions today. To learn more about this diagnostic test, contact Incredible Veins Skin & Body at 818-446-2995.