What is a Non-Invasive Vein Evaluation?
In the past, surgeons could only remove the veins that they could see on the surface of the skin because they did not have the ability technology to completely evaluate the cause of the patient’s varicose vein problems. This caused a significant failure rate within the first 2 years of surgery. To successfully determine the underlying cause of venous reflux and varicose veins, Physicians Vein Clinics utilizes technologically advanced diagnostic techniques to get to the heart of the problem. These techniques include:
CT-Venography
Computed tomography venography (CT-V) is a specialized and precise scanning process that combines a series of X-ray images taken from a variety of angles to produce a detailed cross-sectional view of the human body that allows Dr. Hansen to take a closer look at your veins for medical analysis and diagnosis purposes. It is highly beneficial when trying to locate blood clots, obstruction, or venous reflux in the body as a possible cause of continued leg pain in a patient. A CT-V can be used to assess the size and condition of veins anywhere in the body, including the deep system of the pelvis and abdomen, and help find the underlying source of vein abnormalities.
Duplex Ultrasound
Duplex ultrasound allows for the visualization of veins and their venous flow assessment, along with the determination of the status of the deep, superficial, and perforator veins. It allows us to look through the tissue and get a real-time evaluation of the vein problems with each patient. The evaluation is 100% pain-free. We can even look at the direction of the flow of blood within the veins. Veins in which the blood is not flowing back toward the heart are considered incompetent.
Magnetic Resonance Venography (MR-V)
MR-V is a diagnostic tool that uses contrast dyes and state-of-the-art imaging techniques and equipment to provide high-resolution, three-dimensional images of veins. It is also a beneficial tool used to capture the blood flow rate and direction of the venous system. This is also a useful tool in allowing Dr. Hansen to look deeper into the system of the pelvis and abdomen to determine venous diagnosis.
Photoplethysmography
Photoplethysmography allows for the determination of the lower extremity venous refill time (VRT), with and without inflatable cuffs, to discern the individual contribution of superficial and deep vein insufficiency. This will assist us in the complete evaluation of your veins.