Vein Care - Ultrasound Scans

The use of ultrasound has taken the guesswork out of diagnosis, changed the surgical approach and techniques, and allows the non-surgical treatment of any veins which are not visible from the surface.

Colour Doppler allows the sonographer to immediately determine the direction of flow in a blood vessel, and gives a “yes or no” answer to venous competence. The rate of flow is determined with the additional use of Pulsed Wave Doppler.

With this information (the “numbers”), the most appropriate treatment options is decided on, using the velocity of the backward (incompetent) flow of blood in a vein, the size of the vessel, and the number of incompetent systems of veins.

Vein & Laser bought another "State of the Art" portable Ultrasound machine at the beginning of 2008- our second portable ultrasound machine. Bronwen travels to other clinics with one of them to scan for surgeons in Auckland and Whangarei. This means that the patient can be scanned and seen immediately afterwards by the surgeon, thus saving an extra appointment, time and travel.

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Types of Scans

Ultrasound Mapping Scan
Everyone is different and venous anatomy can be quite complex, especially in patients that have had previous surgery – the anatomy is changed and the doctor needs to know what it looks like now. Ultrasound quickly and accurately determines which veins are incompetent, (this means the veins allow two-way flow – there should only be one way flow - up towards the chest). The scan takes about 30 minutes per leg, and is done with the patient standing which demonstrates the veins at their worst.

Patients with varicose (bulging, lumpy) veins will always need an ultrasound scan to accurately diagnose any underlying problem veins. A scan is not usually necessary for spider veins (small surface veins).

It is often possible to do the ultrasound immediately following your consultation, but other tests may also be required before deciding which would be the best treatment option for you.

Ultrasound Mapping Costs (approx:

Ultrasound Guidance
Scan is done while the treatment is carried out. Different to the mapping scan in that the already identified incompetent veins are located and observed while being injected, then checked that the desired result has been achieved - this is apparent within minutes.

Deep Vein Thrombosis Scan
Scanning using compression of the veins is the gold standard for the
diagnosis of DVT, and is quick and easy to perform taking 10 – 15
minutes per leg. All the deep veins from groin to ankle are systematically checked by compressing them for obstruction (if there is a thrombus present the vein will not “squash”). The deep veins are also checked for competence.

If a patient is suspected of having a DVT a diagnosis can be made very quickly, and treatment started immediately.

If a DVT is found, you will be given information outlining the problem, the treatment, the dangers and signs of problems and what to do. Treatment will be started immediately. We also follow up with a scan at 3-5 days and 3 - 6 months. Your GP will be told and usually assists with your management over next few months. You will wear compression stockings for 2 months or so.

For more information see our DVT page, our vein care frequently asked questions page.

Make an appointment by contacting us on 0800 085 555, email info@veinandlaser.co.nz or fill in our online form.

Southern Cross - www.southerncross.co.nz