Ultrasound, particularly duplex ultrasound, plays a crucial role in diagnosing venous reflux, a key sign of chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). Here's how it works:

What Is Venous Reflux?

Venous reflux refers to the abnormal backward flow of blood in the veins, usually due to weakened valves. This can lead to various symptoms like leg swelling, pain and skin changes.

Benefits of Ultrasound for Diagnosing Venous Reflux

• Noninvasive and painless: This makes it a comfortable and readily accepted diagnostic tool.
• Visualization of blood flow: Unlike X-rays that only show vessel structure, ultrasound allows visualization of blood flow dynamics, including reflux.
• Detailed information: It provides information about the location, extent and severity of reflux in different veins.
• Real-time assessment: Dynamic movements like leg elevation can be assessed in real-time to observe changes in blood flow and confirm reflux.

Types of Ultrasound Used for Venous Reflux Diagnosis

• B-mode ultrasound: Provides a grayscale image of the veins and surrounding tissues.
• Color Doppler ultrasound: Overlays color-coded information on the B-mode image, depicting the direction and velocity of blood flow. This is vital for identifying reflux, where blood flow appears red (when flowing toward the ultrasound probe) and blue (when flowing away from the ultrasound probe).

How a Diagnostic Ultrasound Is Performed

• You lie down on a bed, and the technician applies gel to your legs.
• A handheld probe transmits and receives ultrasound waves, generating images on a screen.
• The technician examines different vein segments in your legs, particularly in the groin, thighs and calves.
• Leg maneuvers like the Valsalva maneuver (straining) or leg elevation may be used to induce pressure changes and better visualize reflux.

Interpreting the Results

• The presence of visible color flow reversal in veins on the Doppler scan may confirm venous reflux.
• Additional factors like the duration and degree of reflux are also assessed.
• The findings are combined with your clinical presentation and other tests (if needed) to make a definitive diagnosis of CVI.

The Importance of Ultrasound Diagnosis

• Early diagnosis of venous reflux allows for prompt treatment to prevent complications like skin ulcers and blood clots.
• It helps guide treatment decisions by identifying the affected veins and severity of reflux.
• Ultrasound can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of treatment over time.

If you or your loved one is in the San Antonio area, Boerne or New Braunfels, call 210-369-9151 today to make your appointment with Dr. Busken.