A pictorial essay of ultrasound findings after endovascular procedures for superficial chronic venous disease

Abstract

To date endovascular surgical techniques represent an effective and widely used choice in the treatment of superficial venous insufficiency. In recent years, tumescent ablative techniques (endovenous laser ablation, radiofrequency ablation) have been joined by non-tumescent ablative techniques (mechanical-chemical ablation and cyanoacrylate glue embolization). The Duplex ultrasound (DUS) is the survey mostly used to evaluate the outcome of these procedures. The aim of this work was to provide an updated overview of the ultrasound aspects that can be found in the follow-up of patients undergoing endovascular procedures. Specifically, the characteristic imaging pictures will be described in the immediate and short/medium term follow-up. The DUS is a fundamental element of the investigation of venous system of the lower limbs after the surgical and endovascular treatment of varicose veins. Therefore, it is necessary to update one’s knowledge regarding ultrasound patterns related to new endovascular procedures.