If you’ve ever had a problem with your veins, such as varicose veins, spider veins, or deep vein thrombosis, you may have heard of a phlebologist. A phlebologist is a medical professional who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of disorders of the veins. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at what a phlebologist is, what they do, and when you might need to see one.
What is a phlebologist?
A phlebologist is a medical doctor who specialises in the diagnosis and treatment of venous disorders. They are trained to identify and treat conditions such as varicose veins, spider veins, and deep vein thrombosis, among others. Phlebologists are doctors who have received additional training in venous diseases. In Australia, the most renowned and comprehensive training program is through the Australasian College of Phlebology (ACP). Fellows of the ACP have undergone four years of specialised training in venous disorders.
What do phlebologists do?
Phlebologists perform a variety of diagnostic and treatment procedures to manage venous disorders. Some of the most common procedures performed by phlebologists include:
- Venous ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of the veins in your legs. It can help diagnose conditions such as deep vein thrombosis and varicose veins.
- Sclerotherapy: This is a non-surgical treatment that involves injecting a solution into the affected vein, causing it to collapse and eventually disappear.
- Endovenous laser treatment (EVLT): This is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a laser to heat and seal off the affected vein, causing it to shrink and disappear.
- Ambulatory phlebectomy: This is a surgical procedure that involves removing small varicose veins through tiny incisions in the skin.
- Compression therapy: This involves wearing compression stockings or socks to improve blood flow and prevent swelling in the legs.
When should you see a phlebologist?
If you have symptoms such as leg pain, swelling, or the appearance of spider or varicose veins, you may need to see a phlebologist.
In conclusion, while phlebology may not be the most well-known medical specialty, it plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and treatment of vein-related conditions. If you’re experiencing issues with spider veins, varicose veins, or other circulation issues in your legs, a phlebologist can help you find relief and improve your overall health and well-being.
At Lasers in Medicine in Adelaide, our phlebologist Dr Darren Ng is a Fellow of the Australasian College of Phlebology and an expert in managing varicose veins and spider veins. You can view his profile here and learn more about vein treatments at www.lasersinmedicine.com.au
