Does either version of the exam hurt? What should I be prepared for?
A reflux exam is done in the standing position. It requires squeezing the calf to move the blood. If a person has calf tenderness, this may be somewhat uncomfortable. In general, the exam is not uncomfortable but requires standing for an extended period of time.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The initial exam consists of a clinical inspection of the legs and duplex ultrasound evaluation of the veins. There is no pain unless the varices are tender to touch. The ultrasound is non-invasive and provides information about the underlying anatomy and blood flow. This allows the physician to identify the causes of the varicose veins. After the ultrasound the physician can then develop an individualized treatment plan.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Reflux exams are ultrasound exams and are noninvasive and not painful. They take about 20 minutes. You will be standing for most of the exam. An ultrasound probe is placed on the leg over the veins to be examined and the results are immediate. You will hear the doppler sounds.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
An ultrasound is not painful. Gel will be applied to the leg and a probe will then be placed on your leg. A reflux study should be performed standing since that is when reflux occurs.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The lower extremities venous Doppler ultrasound is a painless, simple diagnostic test. Does not requiere any preparation. Takes 20-30 min. It is done by a technitian, but in certain centers is done by the treating physician himself, and that is the ideal situation. Relying on a technitian to make a diagnosis and treatment plan can sometimes be misleading and the wrong diagnosis and treatment plan is made.
I would encourage you to look for a center in which the treating physician himself does the study.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Not at all. Doppler and duplex imaging (ultrasound) is the golden standard test for evaluation of reflux in deep and superficial leg veins. Except for having to stand for few minutes during the ultrasound exam, there is no other discomfort. Many clinics use gel warmer for a more gentle touch of gel on the skin. On a side note, pregnant women can have the study without any worries.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
No, this test is not painful, it is just an ultrasound. Gel is rubbed on the leg and the ultrasound wand is then run up and down the leg.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The ultrasound examination is non-invasive. Therefore it is not painful, unless you happen to have areas of your leg or vein that are already significantly inflamed that may be tender to touch. For most patients this test is very easy.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
No, this test is not painful, it is just an ultrasound. Gel is rubbed on the leg and the ultrasound wand is then run up and down the leg.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
Not at all. It is an ultrasound exam.
Published on Jul 11, 2012