Venous Duplex Ultrasound in Chicago
A venous duplex ultrasound is a non-invasive study that measures blood flow direction and velocity, identifies which vessels have valve failure, and shows whether the problem starts in the deep or superficial venous system. It shows which veins are leaking and where, so treatment is aimed at the right vein. Every visit starts with a venous duplex ultrasound, so treatment is matched to what is actually happening in your veins.
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Workers’ Comp, HMO referral or complex insurance? Call (312) 414-1088.
Suspected blood clot: go to the ER.
If one leg is suddenly swollen, painful, warm or red, or you have chest pain or shortness of breath, go to the emergency room now rather than booking a visit.
Why the scan comes first
A visual exam alone isn’t enough. Varicose veins develop when the valves that keep blood moving toward the heart stop working correctly. The underlying problem is called venous insufficiency.
- Blood flow: the direction of blood flow in your veins, and any reflux (backward flow), the root cause of most varicose veins
- Damaged valves: the exact location of valves that no longer close
- Deep or surface veins: whether the problem is in the deep veins or the surface veins that RFA, VenaSeal and Varithena treat
- Other conditions: signs of a blood clot (deep vein thrombosis) or another cause of your symptoms
Also called
Venous duplex ultrasound, duplex vascular ultrasound, venous reflux study (reflux exam), venous Doppler or vein mapping.
Dr. Elbaridi reviews your ultrasound with you and performs your procedure himself.
Who has the scan, and when
Every vein patient has a duplex ultrasound, usually at the first visit, after Dr. Elbaridi takes your history and examines your legs. It is also repeated after a vein closure procedure, usually within the first week, to confirm the vein has closed and check the deep veins.
Reasons to have the scan
- Aching, heaviness, swelling or cramping in the legs
- Visible varicose veins or clusters of spider veins
- Skin changes near the ankle: darkening, hardening or a sore that won’t heal
- Planning any vein treatment, including cosmetic sclerotherapy
- Checking the result after RFA, VenaSeal, Varithena or sclerotherapy
What happens during the scan
1. Getting ready
Wear shorts or loose clothing, skip lotion on your legs that day, and take your usual medications.
2. Standing for the scan
You’ll stand for the study so gravity fully loads the venous system and reflux is clearly visible. Gel goes on the leg, and a handheld probe is moved along the veins from the groin to the ankle.
3. Testing the valves
The calf is squeezed briefly, or you are asked to bear down, to see whether the valves close. The scan doesn’t hurt; you may feel light pressure from the probe.
How long it takes
The scan typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on whether one or both legs are scanned.
Your results
Dr. Elbaridi reviews the results with you, usually at the same visit, and explains which treatment, if any, fits your veins.
What the results lead to
The right approach depends on the size and location of the affected veins, the severity of venous insufficiency, and your health history.
Radiofrequency ablation (RFA)
Radiofrequency heat delivered through a thin catheter closes the vein, which is gradually replaced by scar tissue.
More about vein RFA Adhesive closureVenaSeal
Most patients need only local anesthetic; sedation is available if you want it. You’ll wear compression stockings afterward.
More about VenaSeal Foam injectionVarithena
A medicated foam injected through a small needle under ultrasound guidance. It fills the diseased vein and closes it, with no heat and no incision.
More about Varithena InjectionsSclerotherapy
Ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy reaches deeper veins not visible at the surface.
More about sclerotherapy RemovalMicrophlebectomy
Bulging varicose veins just under the skin are removed through tiny openings, under local anesthetic, with no stitches.
More about microphlebectomy All treatmentsVaricose vein treatment in Chicago
Every treatment we offer, side by side.
Read the guide
Dr. Nidal Elbaridi, MD
- Harvard Medical School phlebology training (2015)
- Medtronic VenaSeal and radiofrequency ablation certification (2019)
- Boston Scientific Varithena certification (2023)
Insurance
Most insurance accepted, including Medicare, Medicare Advantage, PPO and HMO plans. Coverage depends on medical necessity — we verify before your visit.
Medical vein treatment is covered by most insurance when ultrasound confirms venous insufficiency. We verify benefits and pre-authorize before your procedure, so there are no surprise bills afterward.
The scan and your insurance
When you have symptoms, the scan is covered by most plans as part of your evaluation. It is also the study insurers ask for before they approve a vein procedure.
What Chicago patients say about Loop
Dr. Elbaridi and the entire team are truly exceptional. Their bedside manner and genuine care make you feel like more than just another patient…
I’ve been coming to Loop Medical Center for my vein procedures with Dr. Nidal, and I couldn’t be more impressed…
Venous ultrasound questions, answered
Why do I have to stand for the scan?
You’ll stand for the study so gravity fully loads the venous system and reflux is clearly visible. Lying flat can hide a leaking valve.
Does the ultrasound hurt?
No. You may feel light pressure from the probe and a brief squeeze of the calf.
Is this the same as a test for blood clots?
The same type of ultrasound is used to look for blood clots, and the scan checks the deep veins for clots. But if you think you have a clot right now, don’t wait for an appointment. Suspected blood clot: go to the ER.
Will I find out the results the same day?
Usually, yes. Dr. Elbaridi reviews the results with you at the same visit.
Do I need an ultrasound if I only have spider veins?
Yes. Spider veins can be a sign of a leaking vein underneath, and the scan checks for it before treatment. Dr. Elbaridi checks whether your spider veins are only a cosmetic concern or a sign of an underlying problem such as venous insufficiency.
Is the scan covered by insurance?
When you have symptoms, most plans cover it as part of your evaluation. Coverage depends on medical necessity — we verify before your visit.
Book your vein evaluation at Loop Medical Center
Same-week appointments at our South Loop and Streeterville locations.
Opens our secure booking calendar — this page stays open.
Workers’ Comp, HMO referral or complex insurance? Call (312) 414-1088.