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Diagnosing Vein Disease

Diagnosing vein disease relies on a combination of symptoms, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. To confirm the presence of vein disease, a physician may use:

  • Imaging Tests – Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT, and MRI can help doctors visualize blood clots in the veins, and subsequent tests can help determine if they are moving or growing larger.

  • Blood Test – Elevated levels of a particular substance in the blood called D dimer that is present with blood clots.

  • Venography – This technique uses an x-ray and contrast dye in the veins to find potential blood clots.

Treating Vein Disease

Vein disease can be treated with dietary and lifestyle modifications as well as medication. Compression stockings are most commonly used to help relieve symptoms, improve blood flow and reduce swelling. However to treat the root of the problem, further medical treatment may be needed to reduce symptoms and improve appearance. 

These treatments include:

Radiofrequency Ablation

In this minimally-invasive procedure, radio frequency energy applies heat to the vein wall through a thin catheter. This closes off the vein.

Endovenous Laser Therapy

This is similar to RF ablation in that a thin catheter is inserted into a vein, but instead uses a laser fiber to heat the vein wall.

 

Sclerotherapy

Used for both cosmetic and medical purposes, sclerotherapy is an effective treatment option for both spider and varicose veins. This therapy injects medication into the veins which causes them to shrink. Best results are typically achieved over a series of treatments.

Phlebectomy

This procedure involves removal of varicose veins through small punctures or incisions in the skin. Even large veins are able to be removed through this method.

Varithena

This minimally-invasive procedure involves a polidocanol endovenous microfoam (PEM) which is injected into the target vein under ultrasound guidance to cause vessel irritation, spasm and closure.

Veingogh

CIS offers this cosmetic procedure in which radiofrequency energy is applied to the vein using a thin needle for vein damage and closure.  A series of treatments may be required.

Venaseal

This is a minimally-invasive procedure where adhesive is injected into the vein through a thin catheter closing off the vein.

Without treatment, vein disease can worsen over time due to the pressure created by the backflow of blood in the legs. It can lead to more visible veins, swelling, tissue inflammation, tissue damage, or blood clots, and can cause ulcers and infections, which can spread. This condition can be very painful and debilitating. This is why it is important to consult a vein specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.

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Statements on this website are for informational purposes only and are not to be construed as altering the applicable standard of care. Likewise, such statements should not be interpreted as a guarantee that prospective or current patients of CIS will achieve any particular health outcome.