Phlebologist Duties and Characteristics of the Profession
The quality of medical care would be much lower without narrow specialists who are able to diagnose and cure diseases with mixed symptoms. A phlebologist is one of such specialists who is involved in the diagnosis and treatment of the lower extremities venous system diseases. Their abilities include developing the most effective research methods, making a diagnosis, and prescribing the proper treatment.
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History of the Profession
Venous system diseases were first diagnosed and treated in Ancient Greece. Phlebology in the modern sense developed simultaneously in two countries, Russia and Germany. In 1860, German and Russian surgeons began to use the same test. The legs of the patient lying on the couch were pulled by plaits. After the patient got up, the doctor could visually determine the place of vein swelling.
In the 20th century, thanks to the research of the American surgeon W. Babcon, a new method for treating varicose veins with the help of a probe were developed. Before it was necessary to make incisions and carry out a full surgical intervention. This method of treatment was not suitable for all patients. Use of the probe allowed to perform minimally invasive operations that are safe and without contraindications.
The breakthrough in the field of diagnosis and treatment of venous diseases was the invention of ultrasound. The use of ultrasound techniques made it possible to accurately determine the vessels affected by varicose veins, while not injuring the healthy ones. Invention of the laser method of coagulation divided phlebology into therapeutic and surgical fields.
Features of Work
The main responsibility of a phlebologist is an accurate diagnosis. The initial examination practically does not provide an understanding of the disease picture. To make the correct diagnosis, the doctor conducts a study. The easiest diagnostic method is ultrasound. With its help, doctors can identify blood clots and tumors in large veins.
A more accurate picture requires contrast venography. The doctor injects a special substance into the veins, which gives a contrasting color on an x-ray. This allows phlebologists to detect even small blood clots, tumors, and foci of inflammation.
A phlebologist uses different methods to treat affected veins. Large veins are removed completely, small ones get “glued” with the help of special medicine. The use of modern technology greatly simplifies the work of phlebologists-surgeons but also makes it more responsible. The main task of the doctor is to save as many healthy veins as possible and prevent the growth of affected areas.
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