Deep vein problems, like clots or narrowed veins in the legs, pelvis or belly, need tools that look inside the vein. First Coast Cardiovascular Institute (FCCI) uses intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) and venography to see the problem, then venoplasty and stents to improve blood flow. FCCI says it is the only freestanding catheterization lab to focus on treating and managing clotted veins.
IVUS: ultrasound from inside
IVUS is a minimally invasive procedure that uses a specially designed ultrasound probe to image the deep veins in the legs, pelvis and abdomen from inside the vein. FCCI explains it gives an expanded view that helps tell apart deep vein thrombosis, compression and other problems.
Venography: a map of flow
Venography is an x-ray exam that shows how blood is flowing through your veins. FCCI uses it to check for clots or to identify a vein for a procedure.
Venoplasty and stents
- Venoplasty widens a vein using an inflatable balloon, which improves blood flow.
- Stents help keep veins open for adequate blood flow.
Your vein doctor will explain if either fits your situation, and what recovery may look like.
Who might need deep vein care
FCCI's list of deep vein signs includes pain when standing that eases with elevation, leg ulcers, unexplained swelling, lower pelvic pain in women, veins across the belly or pelvis, and a prior or current deep vein thrombosis, including IVC stent placement. These signs do not mean you need a procedure, but they are worth a visit.
An outpatient setting
FCCI opened the first freestanding outpatient cardiac and peripheral vascular cath lab in Jacksonville in 2007, and its cath labs are accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care. FCCI says outpatient care lowers out-of-pocket costs and offers a comfortable, convenient setting.
Sudden leg swelling with chest pain or shortness of breath is an emergency. Call 911.
What to ask about a deep vein procedure
- What did IVUS or venography show?
- Is the problem a clot, compression or something else?
- Would venoplasty or a stent help, and why?
- What will recovery and follow-up look like?
Your doctor will explain your choices in plain words. It is fine to take time to decide.
About the Vein Clinic at FCCI
First Coast Cardiovascular Institute has cared for Northeast Florida since 2002. FCCI calls its Vein Clinic Jacksonville's only comprehensive vein clinic, and the only one in Northeast Florida to house a team of board certified endovascular and vascular physicians. Cardiovascular, sleep medicine, wound care and pulmonary specialists work under the same roof, so if your legs are fine but something else is going on, you are not starting over somewhere new.
FCCI's vascular testing is accredited by the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission, and registered vascular technologists perform the scans. Vein services happen in an outpatient setting, which FCCI says keeps costs low and visits convenient.
Getting ready for your visit
- Call 904.493.3333 to book, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Fill out the New Patient Registration form from FCCI's Patient Resources page
- Bring your ID, insurance card and a list of your medicines
- Wear shorts or loose pants so your legs are easy to check
- Write down when symptoms started and what makes them better or worse
- Need to reschedule? FCCI asks for at least 24 hours' notice
Please do not send health details through any online form. Share them with your care team at the visit or by phone.
Ready to get your legs looked at? Call First Coast Cardiovascular Institute at 904.493.3333, Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or send an appointment request from our Book page. Ask about the free 20-minute vein screening at the Southside office, 7011 AC Skinner Parkway, Ste 160. If you ever have sudden leg swelling with chest pain or shortness of breath, call 911.
