Physical Examination

Varicose vein disease can be very complex. Each patient presents with their own unique circumstances. With over twenty-five years of experience as a surgeon, Dr. Rodman long ago recognized the importance of using his ears as well as his eyes and hands in evaluating patients. He carefully listens to the description of the problem and goes over the medical history. The examination follows, with particular attention to the entire vascular system, both arterial and venous. This is the key to proper diagnosis and treatment.

Color Flow Duplex Ultrasound

The latest ultrasound technology is available at the Vein Center of Texas. Your exam will be performed by an experienced registered vascular sonographer. Using color flow Doppler, we are able to evaluate the deep and superficial venous system in great detail. By combining an accurate assessment of the size and function of the blood vessel, we are able to pinpoint exactly which veins contain leaky valves. This very specialized testing is absolutely necessary and will allow Dr. Rodman to formulate a personalized treatment plan just for you.

Radiofrequency Closure (RFA)

The Vein Center of Texas is pleased to offer Radiofrequency Closure, otherwise known as RFA. RFA is approved by the FDA to treat varicose veins. RFA is rapidly replacing traditional vein stripping as the treatment of choice for varicose veins. RFA uses a special radiofrequency catheter, which is placed inside the abnormal vein using precise ultrasound guidance. Energy is applied to the device heating the inside of the vein. The vein contracts to a smaller size, and ultimately dissolves to a fibrous cord. When the abnormal vein is closed, the blood flow will rapidly divert to the healthy veins.

Advantages of RFA

• Minimally invasive treatment in less than an hour
• Performed by Dr. Rodman in his office
• Rapid relief of symptoms and return to normal activity
• No general anesthesia
• No hospitalization
• Covered by most insurance carriers

Please click here to view clinical outcomes. [PDF, 116Kb]

Click Play below to watch a demonstration of the VNUS® Closure Procedure.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy is a safe and effective method of treatment for spider veins. Spider veins are small, thin veins that lie close to the surface of the skin. A number of factors contribute to the development of spider veins, including heredity, pregnancy and other events that cause hormonal shifts, weight gain, occupations or activities that require prolonged sitting or standing, and the use of certain medications.

A typical sclerotherapy session is relatively quick, lasting only about 15 to 45 minutes. A sclerosing solution is injected into the vein with a micro-needle. The sclerosant most commonly used is sodium tetradecyl sulfate in combination with Glycerin. It is FDA approved for sclerotherapy, specifically to remove varicose veins and spider veins. The solution is injected causing the vein to turn white (blanch), and then gradually disappear.

Although sclerotherapy will obliterate the noticeable veins for good, it's important to remember that treatment will not prevent new spider veins from emerging in the future. As time passes, you may find that you need "touch-ups" or full treatments for new veins that may appear. Even if you choose not to have further treatments, your legs will look better than if you never had treatment at all.