A vein mapping ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to give certified ultrasound technologists a look at how the veins are functioning. The accredited ultrasound techs are able to measure blood flow all over the body and create a map of the body’s vein system. Once this is done, a skilled doctor can see where the veins are functioning properly and where a specific problem exists. This is key to identifying vein disease.
Endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) is a cutting-edge technology that has replaced the need for open surgery. It is a minimally invasive way to treat varicose veins with a laser catheter.
Tributary veins are smaller and more winding than varicose veins. For tributary veins that could not be treated during EVLA, Dr. Gilvydis uses sclerotherapy, which like EVLA, causes the vein to close down. Small injections of a sclerosing agent (also called a “sclerosant”) achieve much the same effect as EVLA but uses a liquid agent rather than light energy.
Ultrasound vein mapping, or vascular ultrasound, is a safe procedure that enables your doctor and other medical professionals to see and map out your veins. Often this is done for the purposes of determining treatment options. Operating a device called a handheld transducer, an ultrasound technician spends approximately one hour using doppler, otherwise known as sound wave technology, to look underneath your skin at your veins.
Ultrasound vein mapping is used prior to surgery. In addition to mapping out all of your veins, this procedure measures blood flow revealing which veins are healthy, and which are not. This mapping technology capitalizes on medical advances to provide accuracy, ease and precision by permitting doctors to narrow in on which specific veins require treatment.
Some of the medical procedures it is commonly used for include:
Endovenous laser ablation, or EVLA, is a safe method of treating varicose veins and other conditions like restless legs, leg cramping, or swelling. It focuses on your larger veins and addresses not only the symptoms, but also the causes of your vein issues. There is no scarring, and it is only slightly invasive.
This outpatient procedure uses local anesthesia to prevent any discomfort from occurring. Then, using just light and heat, a laser catheter seals off any varicose veins that you may have. The heat causes the problematic vein or veins to collapse. Since there are no openings such as those made during surgery and with endovenous laser ablation, only a tiny incision is made. You are free to resume the rest of your day following this short procedure.
Sclerotherapy is another medical technique used to close off damaged or painful veins. While it is frequently performed in conjunction with endovenous laser ablation, it is also a means of addressing troublesome veins that could not be treated with EVLA.
However, rather than using light as a tool, sclerotherapy enlists an agent called a sclerosant to achieve its excellent results. This liquid is injected into your smaller tributary veins. Sclerotherapy is often used to treat medical conditions such as varicose veins or spider veins.
If you are experiencing vein issues, or are just unhappy with the look of your veins, visit Northern Illinois Vein Clinic for a consultation. Our many years of experience and reliability, coupled with the latest in technology, enables our professional staff to offer the best service around.
We help navigate insurance and provide the proper treatment for your individual condition so that you, in turn, receive the best outcome possible. Contact us or call (779) 696-8346 to schedule an appointment so you can experience your best health.
