At La Jolla Vein Care, duplex ultrasound is central to evaluating vein health. This safe, noninvasive test lets our specialists see blood flow in real time, pinpoint the cause of symptoms, and build the most effective treatment plan.
Many vein problems aren’t visible on the skin’s surface. Duplex ultrasound gives a detailed view of your veins and blood flow, helping us:
• Identify the cause of symptoms such as leg swelling, pain, or heaviness. •Detect hidden vein disease that may not show as visible varicose or spider veins. •Measure vein function to confirm blood is moving correctly back to the heart. •Prevent complications by diagnosing serious conditions early, including deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
Ultrasound uses sound waves (not radiation) and is comfortable, quick, and highly informative for both diagnosis and treatment planning.
Venous reflux is the backward flow of blood caused by weakened or damaged valves in the veins.
• Why it matters: Reflux can lead to varicose veins, swelling, skin changes, and ulcers if not treated. • How we check: A duplex ultrasound maps your veins and measures flow direction to assess valve function. • Outcome: We identify malfunctioning veins so treatment can precisely target the source of symptoms.
DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) Examination
DVT occurs when a blood clot forms in the deep veins, most often in the legs.
• Why it matters: A clot can travel to the lungs and cause a pulmonary embolism, which is a medical emergency. • How we check: Ultrasound shows if a vein compresses normally and whether blood flow is unobstructed—key signs for detecting a clot. • Outcome: We diagnose or rule out DVT promptly so treatment can begin right away if needed.
ABI (Ankle-Brachial Index)
The ankle-brachial index (ABI) is a test that uses inflatable pressure cuffs to assess blood flow in the legs and arms.
• Why it matters: ABI testing is used preoperatively to assess the vascular status of patients undergoing lower extremity surgeries or interventions, ensuring that sufficient blood flow is present.
• How we check: ABI compares the blood pressures in a patient’s ankle arteries with the arteries in their arms in order to indicate if the patient is receiving adequate blood flow in their feet.
Your Ultrasound Visit
• Comfortable & needle-free: No incisions or radiation. • On-site imaging: Scans are performed in our clinic by certified vascular technologists. • Same-day discussion: A vein specialist reviews your images with you and explains next steps. • Personalized plan: Findings guide a tailored treatment approach for lasting results.
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Dr. Amanda Steinberger is a Harvard-trained, board-certified vascular interventional radiologist. She specializes in a broad range of superficial vein disease including varicose veins, spider veins, venous leg ulcers, lymphedema and cosmetic laser vein treatments. Dr. Steinberger sees patients in our La Jolla Office.
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Can I get insurance coverage for my vein treatment?
Depending on your insurance plan, you may or may not have out of pocket expenses. We work with your insurance providers to maximize your insurance coverage and provide a complete overview of your treatment cost. We believe in cost transparency and will provide a cost estimate of any anticipated out of pocket expenses. Cost is important. We can work with your insurance to find out this information today!
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Can I get insurance coverage for my vein treatment?
With Molina insurance plans, most patients should not have out of pocket expenses. We work with Molina to maximize your insurance coverage and provide a complete overview of your treatment cost. We believe in cost transparency and will provide a cost estimate of any anticipated out of pocket expenses. Cost is important. We can work with your insurance to find out this information today!
