In order to properly diagnose some venous diseases, it is necessary to look inside the vein itself. We can accomplish this with deep vein intravascular ultrasound, also known as IVUS. This imaging tool uses a catheter to enter the vein in a minimally invasive way. To learn more about this diagnostic device, feel free to visit Commonwealth Vein Center, Ultrasound Richmond VA. We are located in Colonial Heights, and our staff would be more than happy to answer your questions. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
How Does Deep Vein Intravascular Ultrasound Work?
The procedure combines two different processes to give the doctor a good idea of the status of your veins. The first is echocardiography, which is ultrasound waves that can create images of your heart. This checks to make sure everything is functioning properly
The second process is cardiac catheterization, which is another method by which cardiovascular function can be determined. Combining these two methods into deep vein intravascular ultrasound can give the doctor a comprehensive look at the health of your veins.
Do You Need IVUS?
Deep vein intravascular ultrasound is strictly for diagnostic purposes. The device itself will not treat any venous diseases or blockages, but it will give the doctor a good idea of what the best treatment option may be.
- Certain symptoms can be linked with venous disease, such as:
- Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet
- Itchy or painful feeling in the legs
- An unexplained feeling of warmth in one area
- Patches of skin turning pale, red, or blue
If you believe that you may be suffering from a disease like deep vein thrombosis (DVT), then it may be a good idea to take a closer look at deep vein intravascular ultrasound as a diagnostic tool. When you visit us here in Ultrasound Richmond VA, we can make a diagnosis and give you a recommended treatment option.
What to Expect
A sedative may be necessary to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure, which may require that you spend some time in our office as the effects wear off. The procedure itself is minimally invasive, so there is only a tiny incision necessary to insert the catheter. How long the procedure lasts will depend on how complex your procedure needs to be.
Learn More
Deep vein intravascular ultrasound is an effective way to detect issues within the veins. If you have been noticing strange symptoms that could be stemming from venous disease, then it may be a good idea to consider IVUS. Visit Commonwealth Vein Center in Colonial Heights to learn more from our educated staff. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!
