What is Phlebology?

Phlebology is a term used to describe the specialty of venous disorder treatments. A medically certified specialist in phlebology is called a phlebologist.

The American Medical Association added phlebology to their list of self-designated practice specialties in 2005. There have been many associations and societies put in place that focus entirely on the treatment of venous disorders. These associations have helped to develop and improve advanced methods used within the field of phlebology.  

  • In 2007, the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine (ABVLM) was established to improve the standards of phlebologists and the quality of their patient care by developing a certification examination.
  • With over 2,000 members, the American College of Phlebology (ACP) is one of the largest medical societies in the world for health professionals working in the field of phlebology.

Types of venous disorders

Venous insufficiency

Venous insufficiency is the most common venous disorder and is often — but not always —exhibited by spider veins or varicose veins. Venous insufficiency occurs when the flow of blood is inhibited due to damaged valves within the vein, resulting in backward blood flow.

Thrombophlebitis

Thrombophlebitis, sometimes referred to as phlebitis, occurs when a blood clot blocks one or more of your veins, often in your legs. This can affect veins near the surface of the skin, known as superficial thrombophlebitis, or in a deep vein, which is called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Minimally invasive vein disorder treatments

Endovenous laser therapy

Endovenous laser therapy (EVLT) is a minimally-invasive procedure that’s done by inserting a tiny catheter through a small incision into the vein. Using light energy to close the problem vein, the vein is gradually absorbed by the body. EVLT is painless and allows you to get back to your normal routine with little to no downtime.

Sclerotherapy

Sclerotherapy involves injecting a special sclerosing agent directly into the problem vein using a super-fine needle. The sclerosing agent causes the veins to shut down and gradually be absorbed into the body naturally. The procedure is quick, only about 20-30 minutes, and you can return to work the next day.

Microphlebectomy

Microphlebectomy is used to treat problem veins that are too small to be treated with EVLT but too large to be treated with sclerotherapy. This procedure involves making tiny incisions through which the problem vein can be removed painlessly. There is little to no downtime after this procedure.

VeinGogh treatment

The VeinGogh treatment is normally performed on those who have spider veins on certain areas like the face, ankles or knees. This treatment uses a very fine, insulated needle to administer a high-frequency electrical energy to selectively target spider veins. The spider veins will disappear quickly, and you can return to work the next day.

If you or someone you love has questions about vein disease, give the vein specialists at Total Vein Care a call today at (225) 245-3549 to schedule your next appointment.

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