Si vous êtes atteinte de lipoedème et souhaitez vous soigner, effectuer un examen veineux sera essentiel. Mais qu’entend-on exactement par « examen veineux » et à quoi cela sert-il, si vous avez déjà été diagnostiquée ?
What is a venous examination?
Venous examination, otherwise known as echo-Doppler examination, is a medical imaging test that involves observing the veins of the arms or legs and their blood flow, on moving images. It is based on two techniques: the first, with which you are no doubt familiar, is ultrasound. The second is the Doppler function: the ultrasound probe studies the frequency of sound waves, which is modified if the waves are reflected by a moving target. In this case, the red blood cells, i.e. the blood flow.
The aim is to enable a better diagnosis of your disorders, and the impact on your limbs. The venous network will stand out particularly clearly, and is generally associated with a color code: blue if blood circulation is normal, red if it’s against the flow (indicating reflux).
How does it work?
It is performed by ultrasound, using a probe that is moved over the limbs under observation. There are many advantages to this technique: it is completely painless, harmless and non-intrusive. As a result, it can be recommended at any age, and repeated as often as necessary – which is extremely useful for monitoring the progression of lipedema and the impact of treatments. It can also be used to identify and define the location of venous thrombosis, as well as the size of the clot obstructing the vein. This is particularly useful if you suffer from lipedema, which is frequently associated with an increased risk of thrombosis.
How does the exam work in practice?
The examination must be carried out by a specialist – radiologist, physician or vascular surgeon. After asking you a few questions about your treatments, your state of health or the surgery you have undergone, he or she will seat you on a stool, first from the front, then from the back. In some cases, you may also be seated on an examination table. He will then apply a gel to the affected limbs. In the case of lipedema, this will be your legs and/or arms. This will enable the ultrasound to circulate better. He will then place the probe in contact with the skin. He or she may perform manual compressions with the probe, to better study the direction of blood flow and diagnose any reflux or thrombosis.
The examination lasts an average of 30 minutes, so be sure to allow plenty of time when booking your appointment. You should also avoid applying creams or oils to the limbs concerned, as these may interfere with the ultrasound. As we have seen, the doctor will apply a gel in any case.
How are images formed?
The examination is recorded by a computer, which converts the images into movements. The doctor will then be able to study all the movements analyzed and give you a detailed report.
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