Also known as lower extremity duplex scan, it is a combination of sonography and Doppler. It is a noninvasive sensitive and specific test that allows for the detection of venous thrombosis (blood clots in the veins of the leg), or faulty valves in the superficial veins that are causing varicose veins.
The ultrasound is performed by using a transducer probe which is placed over the lower extremity. A clear warm gel is applied to the targeted body part and the transducer is moved across the area to visualize the internal images. It is usually done with the patient in the supine position, but may be done with the patient standing to allow for the most precise evaluation of a faulty valve in the vein. You will see the images on the screen in real time, so that you and the physician can review them together.
It is essential to mapping out the abnormal vein that will be treated, and it allows for the placement of the needle and or laser fiber into that vein to ensure its accurate treatment.