598 Expediting the journey of venous disease management by adopting (one stop vein clinic)

Introduction

As a third of the UK's population is estimated to be affected by varicose veins, which cause around 10% of complications, varicose veins represents a significant part of the surgical workload.

To receive their diagnosis and be listed for treatment, patients must attend two outpatient appointments interrupted by ultrasound scans provided by radiographers.

Statistical analysis indicated that there was a significant delay from referral to treatment exceeding eight months as a result of a shortage of radiographers which resulted in a delayed ultrasound.

Aims

Speeding up the management can be achieved by incorporating diagnostic imaging input within the outpatient department by creating a One Stop Clinic where the patient will be examined in the clinic and undergo ultrasound scan by the same vascular surgeon before receiving the management plan in the same setting.

Methods

A project was started on March 2022 by allowing a vascular surgeon to scan patients under supervision of a radiologist till he is confident to perform it independently. Data showed that 111 patients were scanned in 8 months and were provided the decision plan to intervene immediately following the scan. Treatment was received within 6 weeks following the clinic visit.

Conclusion

In addition to benefitting patients by providing immediate management plans and early treatment, one-stop vein clinics will also assist in saving the NHS resources, clinic spaces, and costs. Furthermore, it will reduce the workload of radiographers and assist vascular surgeons in mastering the skills of ultrasound, which are becoming a cornerstone of modern vascular surgery.