Sclerotherapy Workup

Updated: Jul 10, 2023
  • Author: Samer Alaiti, MD, RVT, RPVI, FACP; Chief Editor: Jorge I de la Torre, MD, FACS  more...
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Workup

Imaging Studies

Duplex ultrasonography is the diagnostic method of choice for diagnosing venous disease. A thorough workup is warranted in the presence of symptoms such as aching, cramps, fatigue and swelling of the lower limbs, along with a positive family history of varicose veins; in the presence of varicose veins, and in patients who have a cutaneous manifestation of an underlying venous disease (stasis dermatitis, stasis ulcers, lipodermatosclerosis, atrophie blanche).

Duplex ultrasonography is the most frequently used investigation for the diagnosis and management of chronic venous disease (both deep and superficial) in the lower extremities. It should demonstrate both the anatomical patterns of veins and abnormalities of venous blood flow in the limbs (functional impairment). Duplex ultrasonography has largely replaced handheld nonimaging (continuous wave [CW]) audible Doppler instruments to assess venous disease and confirm clinical impressions. [9] For more information, see Radiology article Deep Venous Thrombosis, Lower Extremity.

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Other Tests

Other available functional tests for venous disease include photoplethysmography and air plethysmography.

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