Doppler ultrasound of the veins The Phlebology Clinic / Services / Ultrasound diagnostics / Doppler ultrasound / Doppler ultrasound of the veins Introduction Scope of service Preparation Specialists Frequently asked questions Introduction Doppler ultrasound of the venous system is a key diagnostic test in modern phlebology. It allows a precise assessment of the veins in our body in real time. This painless and non-invasive imaging method allows a thorough examination of the anatomy and morphology of the venous vessels, blood flow in the veins, assessment of their patency and the efficiency of the venous valves. The history of the use of Doppler ultrasound in the diagnosis of veins began as early as the 1960s. As early as 1966, Gene Strandness and his team at the University of Seattle (USA) were the first to use the Doppler effect to assess blood flow in vessels, The breakthrough moment was the introduction in the 1970s of the two-dimensional imaging (so-called B-mode) in ultrasonography and the duplex technique, combining 2D images with Doppler flow assessment. In 1987, the technique was introduced colour Doppler (Color Doppler Imaging), which revolutionised venous diagnostics by allowing real-time visualisation of blood flow. In the 1990s, flow assessment techniques were refined, increasing the precision and sensitivity of these methods. Modality development Power Doppler (PD), has led to increased sensitivity in detecting free flow in small vessels. This is a key skill for assessing venous malformations or dilated venous plexuses in pelvic venous insufficiency. At the beginning of the 21st century, advanced 3D/4D imaging techniques and elastography were introduced - but they have not influenced the development of phlebology like the earlier ultrasound imaging techniques. Currently Doppler ultrasound examination is the gold standard in the diagnosis of venous disease. It has virtually completely replaced such diagnostic methods as phlebography (phlebography digital is used almost exclusively at the intraoperative stage). Modern ultrasound machines offer high resolution imaging, advanced mapping and flow detection options and the ability to visualise the vascular wall with great precision, which has significantly improved the efficiency of venous disease diagnosis and treatment. For modern phlebology, venous Doppler ultrasound has become a fundamental tool - it allows not only accurate diagnosis, but also the planning of procedures, their execution (it has significantly improved intraoperative precision and safety), monitoring of treatment effectiveness and early detection of venous disease complications. Doppler ultrasound examinations of veins performed at the Phlebology Clinic? At our facility, we offer comprehensive ultrasound diagnostics of the venous system, performing such examinations as: Doppler ultrasound of the veins of the lower limbs; Doppler ultrasound of the veins of the upper limbs; Doppler ultrasound of the jugular and vertebral veins; Venous Doppler ultrasound in the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis of the lower limbs, iliac veins and inferior vena cava; Doppler ultrasound of the abdominal and pelvic veins with assessment of the pelvic floor and perineum; Doppler ultrasound of the portal system. What does a specialist visit with assessment by Doppler venous ultrasound include? taking a detailed medical history; physical examination (if necessary); Doppler ultrasound examination of the veins of a selected area of the body; assessment of venous anatomy, morphology, patency and venous valve function; mapping the course of inefficient veins; blood flow measurement; photographic documentation; detailed description of the study; qualification for treatment if necessary. Doppler ultrasound examination of the veins Price range: PLN 300-650 Duration: 15-40 min. Make an appointment How do I prepare for a Doppler ultrasound examination of the veins of the lower limbs? On the day of the examination, it is inadvisable to apply excessive amounts of lotion to the skin; it is best to attend the examination in a loose-fitting, two-piece outfit (a hard-to-remove female bodysuit is not advisable); please bring previous medical records (e.g. from a previous ultrasound examination) along with records of imaging studies such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance (MR); it is best to come to the Doppler venous ultrasound examination without compression devices (they may be removed 1-2 hours before the examination); it is not necessary to be fasting; the bladder must be emptied before the examination. How do I prepare for an abdominal and pelvic vein Doppler ultrasound? Adherence to the following recommendations significantly increases the chances of obtaining better results during the test Doppler ultrasound of the abdominal and pelvic veins with evaluation of the veins of the pelvic day. 2 days before the examination, avoid heavy digestive foods and fizzy drinks and start taking espumisan (or similar intestinal degassing preparation) in a dose of 2 tablets 3 times a day (morning, noon and evening); on the day of the examination (approx. 2-3 hours before the scheduled Doppler ultrasound examination), take an additional 2 tablets of espumisan; on the day of the examination, do not consume coffee, cigarettes or chew gum; Do not take food for a minimum of 6-8 hours before the test; people with diabetes should carry out the test in the morning if possible; take care to keep your body hydrated; on the day before the examination, it is best to drink about 2-2.5 litres of still water; the bladder can be emptied up to 20-30 minutes before the ultrasound examination (there is no need to fill the bladder before the examination!); If a percutaneous assessment of the intimate area is required, depilation of the perineal and vulvar areas is indicated; It is advisable to wear a comfortable two-piece to the examination and to remove the earring from the navel area (if present); It is best to bring previous medical records (including previous ultrasound examinations and records from imaging studies such as MR or CT scans). What sets us apart? The Phlebology Clinic is the leading centre for the diagnosis and treatment of venous disease in Poland. As pioneers in the causal treatment of venous disease, we have introduced innovative diagnostic protocols (from holistic venous assessment by Doppler ultrasound to extended diagnosis by MR/CT venography) that have become standard in many phlebology centres. Our strengths include: Poland's largest experience in ultrasound diagnosis of the venous system, including pelvic venous insufficiency; proprietary diagnostic and treatment methods validated in scientific studies; state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment; a comprehensive approach to the diagnosis and treatment of venous disease with fully personalised treatment; a team of experienced radiologists, interventional radiologists, surgeons, proctologists and vascular surgeons and nurses created to work as one TEAM! Consulting specialists dr n. med. Cezary Szary - phlebologist, radiologist Phlebology, Radiology and Imaging Diagnostics Dr Dominika Plucińska - phlebologist, radiologist radiology and diagnostic imaging, phlebology Tomasz Grzela, MD - phlebologist, surgeon General surgery, phlebology dr n. med. Justyna Wilczko – flebolog, internista Phlebology, internal medicine, radiology and diagnostic imaging Dr Krzysztof Celejewski - phlebologist, surgeon general surgery, phlebology dr n. med. Łodyga Małgorzata - phlebologist, cardiologist cardiology, phlebology, Doppler ultrasonography Mostlyquestions asked Can Doppler ultrasound detect the causes of leg swelling? Yes, venous Doppler ultrasound can differentiate the causes of swelling and determine whether it is venous, lymphatic or perhaps caused by another cause. Can venous Doppler ultrasound detect the early stages of venous disease? Yes, Doppler ultrasound of the venous system makes it possible to detect even early signs of venous insufficiency before visible symptoms appear. In the prognostic evaluation, it is very important to diagnose anatomical variations predisposing to the development of venous insufficiency later in the patient's life. For more on this topic, see: Venous insufficiency in young adults Is it possible to perform a venous Doppler ultrasound after exercise? We recommend that venous Doppler ultrasound is performed after a minimum 30-minute rest for the most reliable results. Can a venous Doppler ultrasound be performed during menstruation? Yes, although a date outside of monthly bleeding is preferred for the patient's greater comfort. Especially if we need to perform Doppler ultrasound of the abdominal and pelvic veins with assessment of the perineal veins. How often should Doppler ultrasound be performed for varicose veins in pregnancy? During pregnancy, it is recommended that Doppler ultrasound of the veins during an obvious exacerbation of venous disease, when thrombophlebitis is suspected, when deep vein thrombosis is suspected and when symptoms of pelvic venous insufficiency are exacerbated. More frequent check-ups (sometimes every 12-14 weeks) are performed in pregnant patients with known post-thrombotic syndrome or in ladies with known thrombophilia (hypercoagulability). How to prepare a 13-year-old child for a venous Doppler ultrasound? No special preparation is required in children. It is the same as for adults. It is advisable to follow the general advice given in the paragraph "preparation for the test". It is a good idea to schedule your child's examination at times when the child is rested and cooperative. Dr Venus: virtual patient counsellor Looking for an answer to your vein question? Ask our Dr. Venus! Ask Dr Venus a question When is it a good idea to examine veins by Doppler ultrasound after pregnancy? It is recommended that you go for a follow-up appointment with a phlebologist and have your veins assessed by Doppler ultrasound about six months after delivery. 01 / Vascular spider veins Dilated subcutaneous capillaries and reticular veins are a common symptom heralding the development of venous insufficiency. Their occurrence should not be underestimated. 02 / Varicose veins of the lower limbs They are the most common symptom of venous insufficiency of the lower limbs. Their occurrence should not be underestimated. At the Phlebology Clinic, we treat venous disease causally. 03 / Venous edema of the shin An enlargement of the shin circumference that increases in the evening, accompanied by a feeling of heaviness, is usually a symptom of venous insufficiency. Think about having a venous Doppler ultrasound examination! 04 / Pelvic venous insufficiency Painful and prolonged periods, heaviness in the legs during menstruation, pain during intercourse and burning in the intimate area are just some of the symptoms of pelvic venous insufficiency. Find out more! 05 / Venous compression syndromes It is a group of anatomically determined venous disorders leading to early onset of pelvic venous insufficiency and varicose veins on the legs. It affects both ladies and gentlemen! 06 / Venous disease in pregnancy Not sure when to start wearing compression stockings? Do you suspect vulvar varicose veins or have noticed sudden swelling of a limb during pregnancy! Don't wait to develop venous disease - consult our phlebologist for your symptoms. 07 / Varicose veins of the spermatic cord Up to 40% cases of male infertility may be related to varicose veins of the seminal vagina. This form of pelvic venous insufficiency is one of the more common causes of varicose veins on the legs and a cause of discomfort in the groin and scrotum. Early diagnosis increases the chance of a full cure! 08 / Venous thrombosis Swelling of the leg, pain and redness are alarm signals that should not be ignored. Venous thrombosis is an emergency condition that requires immediate diagnosis by Doppler ultrasound. If untreated, it can lead to life-threatening pulmonary embolism. 01 / 08 Modern vein treatment We offer treatment both on an outpatient basis and in day ward admissions. The stay is of short duration. The patient spends between 1 and 5 hours in the Clinic. Make an appointment Make an appointment for a venous Doppler ultrasound at the Phlebology Clinic Make an appointment
