Vein studies involve examination of the venous structures of the body.
Health veins are blood vessels designed to carry blood back to the heart, moving against the force of gravity. Normally, one-way valves keep blood flowing away from your legs toward your heart, helping to control the flow and pressure. When these valves do not work as they should, blood flow is obstructed and blow collects in your legs causing pain and pressure. The impaired blood flow causes the vein to expand, lose form, and protrude from underneath the skin.
Vein Mapping is the process of identifying and measuring of veins in the upper or lower extremities. By measuring the diameter of a particular vein and examining blood flow, the physician is able to determine if a patient is suffering from a condition known as venous insufficiency. Another use of these tests is to determine if a patient has blockage or thrombus within the vasculature.
Who needs it?
Only about 5% of Americans suffering from Venous Insufficiency seek treatment. Without treatment, this condition can become progressively debilitating and can affect daily life.
- Patients with complaints of leg pain, cramping, fatigue, heaviness, itchiness.
- Patients with slow healing ulcers, sores, or skin changes.
- Patients with varicose veins that appear dark blue, swollen, or twisted under the skin.
Typically, this condition is found in patients with family history of varicose veins, advanced age, pregnancy, occupations requiring prolonged standing, and obesity.
What to expect before, during, and after?
Before | No special preparation is needed for this test. You may be asked to be well hydrated to allow for easier visualization of the veins. |
During | A venous doppler is a painless and non-invasive test typically performed by a technician. During the test, you will be asked to lie on an exam table. The technician will stimulate blood flow to aid in the test by applying slight compression to specific locations within extremity. |
After | The doctor will provide you with results and recommendations for prevention and/or treatment right after completion of the test. Unless otherwise specified, you may resume normal activities and normal diet. |
Are there any risks I should be aware of?
No risks are associated with this test. The sound waves are harmless and the gel is easily removed off your skin.