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Phlebologist - Chicago, IL

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What is Vein Disease (Phlebology)?

Phlebology is a medical specialty that treats venous disease (conditions affecting veins). Phlebologists provide cosmetic or medical procedures to reduce or eliminate vein appearance. They may also diagnose venous disease and treat its symptoms. While phlebologists are certified physicians who complete an additional program in phlebology, they are not qualified to perform invasive or complex venous surgeries. Instead, patients with severe venous disease or who require surgery will most likely be referred to vascular surgeons.

Patients may be diagnosed through physical evaluation (e.g. checking legs for swelling) and through duplex ultrasound imaging. During a vascular duplex ultrasound scan, a transducer (small box-shaped device) is rubbed over a patient's legs to reveal internal images of the patient's veins. Phlebologists can treat the following conditions, among others:

  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT), a condition where blood clots in a deep vein (vein located deep within the body, typically within the calves or thighs)
  • Varicose veins, which are enlarged veins, which might be invisible ("venous reflux") or might be visible as blue and purple lines on the outer calf and thighs
  • Spider veins, which are a form of varicose veins that are smaller and blue or red in color
  • Wounds and injuries to the leg veins

Phlebologists can address these conditions through minimally invasive treatments. They may use a catheter (thin tube inserted into the body) and pain-relieving local anesthesia during operative procedures. Phlebologists may perform the following treatments:

  • Sclerotherapy, where a solution called "sclerosant" is injected into spider or varicose veins causing the veins to harden, shrink, and to become naturally re-absorbed
  • Ablations, including endovenous laser ablation (EVLA) and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) where a catheter applies radiofrequency or laser energy heat to destroy and disperse veins
  • Phlebectomy, where small incisions are made to remove the damaged vein
  • Oral medications
  • Lifestyle adjustments, such as exercise, dietary plans, leg elevation, and compression stockings

Phlebologists may work alongside vascular surgeons, cardiologists, dermatologists, and radiologists.