If you are experiencing leg pain and discomfort, your doctor may order a vein or leg ultrasound to determine whether poor vein health is to blame. An ultrasound is a minimally invasive imaging exam that can help diagnose a range of medical conditions, including vein disease.
Vein disease, also known as venous insufficiency, is the underlying cause of varicose veins. At USA Vein Clinics, our vein specialists are available to diagnose, treat, and provide continuing care for varicose veins and a range of venous conditions.
What are Venous Ultrasounds?
A venous ultrasound is a type of imaging exam that uses sound waves to create real-time depictions of your veins. These images can help your doctor evaluate your vein health, diagnose varicosities, and make personalized treatment recommendations.
During a venous ultrasound, a small probe collects the sound waves reflecting off blood cells and uses a computer to create an external visual of blood flow inside the body. A vein ultrasound procedure can examine both superficial and deep veins. Ultrasound does not use radiation and should not cause any pain or discomfort.
Your doctor may order this exam to:
- Monitor blood flow to your legs
- Check for blockages or abnormalities
- Detect blood clots, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT)
- Evaluate varicose veins
- Evaluate spider veins
- Map blood vessels to plan vein treatment
- Provide real-time guidance during vein procedures
- Diagnose vein disease
What Can I Expect During an Ultrasound of Leg Veins?
When you visit one of our leading vein specialists, they may recommend a leg vein anatomy ultrasound, also known as an ultrasound on legs for varicose veins.
How long does an ultrasound of the leg take? For most patients, it can be performed in about 30 minutes.
At USA Vein Clinics, we are committed to making sure that your leg ultrasound is quick, convenient, and comfortable. To help you prepare, below are a number of things to know before, during, and after your exam.
Before your vein ultrasound:
We recommend that you be well-hydrated prior to your appointment. It can also be helpful to wear comfortable clothing. When you arrive, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown.
During your leg ultrasound:
Your ultrasound technician will begin by placing gel on the skin, which may feel cool initially. Then, they will use a handheld device called a transducer to obtain real-time imaging of your leg veins for evaluation. Depending on your positioning, you may be able to see your images appear on a small screen.
Some types of ultrasound involve lying on your back the entire time. During a leg ultrasound, your technician may ask that you stand for a portion or the duration of your exam.
After your leg ultrasound:
You will be given a towel to clean off any residual gel from your skin. Afterward, you can change back into your regular clothing.
Based on your ultrasound findings, your doctor will be prepared to make personalized treatment recommendations.
Are Ultrasounds and Vein Mapping the Same thing?
Ultrasounds earn the superhero title of “vein mapping” because of their incredible ability to unveil the intricate roadmap of your veins. At USA Vein Clinics, we make this magic happen right on your initial visit. Our skilled specialists create a visual guide, revealing the unique patterns of your veins. This mapping not only confirms diagnoses but also uncovers hidden details, guiding us to recommend an individualized treatment plan for your vein condition. It’s like having a GPS for your veins, ensuring that we navigate your journey to optimal vein health with precision and expertise from the get-go to help with better outcomes and relief from vein disease symptoms.
What Happens After the Ultrasound?
After our skilled specialists perform an ultrasound to map out the intricate details of your veins, the magic doesn’t stop there – it’s just the beginning of crafting your personalized treatment plan. The ultrasound results provide a comprehensive picture of your vein health, allowing our doctors to pinpoint the exact nature and severity of your condition. With this valuable information in hand, the doctor engages in a thoughtful analysis, considering various factors such as your medical history, lifestyle, and preferences.
This collaborative approach ensures that your treatment plan aligns seamlessly with your individual needs. The doctor then discusses the ultrasound findings with you, explaining the diagnosis and potential treatment options. This open and transparent dialogue empowers you to actively participate in the decision-making process, ensuring that your vein treatment journey is not only effective but also tailored to your preferences and well-being. At USA Vein Clinics, your doctor doesn’t just interpret ultrasound results; they use them as the blueprint for a customized and patient-centric roadmap to optimal vein health.
Your vein specialist may recommend one or more of the following treatments:
- Endovenous Laser Therapy (EVLT)
- ClariVein®
- VenaSeal™ Treatment
- Varithena Vein Treatment
- Ultrasound-Guided Sclerotherapy
- Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
While lifestyle modifications may help prevent additional issues, treatment of the underlying condition is the only way to lessen or resolve painful symptoms.
Request a Consultation at USA Vein Clinics
There is no reason to suffer any longer from varicose vein pain and discomfort. At USA Vein Clinics, we offer minimally invasive, outpatient vein treatment in over 90 locations nationwide. For your convenience, we also provide virtual doctor visits. Contact us today at 888.768.3467 or schedule an appointment online.
If you are concerned about your vein health, we suggest discussing venous insufficiency ultrasound with a vein specialist. This can be a good first step towards a healthier future.
