Noninvasive imaging of the lower extremity for deep venous thrombosis

Abstract

Noninvasive imaging for LE DVT has advanced remarkably in the past decade. Currently, IPG and ultrasound techniques (RTU and DS) have been proven to be quick, accurate, relatively inexpensive, and widely available methods for detecting proximal LE DVT and can be used as the initial diagnostic studies in many settings. Color-flow Doppler ultrasound studies may be more accurate than other ultrasound techniques in diagnosing calf DVT and in differentiating acute from chronic LE DVTs, though this bears further review. Many concerns remain regarding noninvasive LE DVT imaging, including: The accuracy of the above studies in nonreferral centers. The need for and optimal frequency of follow-up studies to detect clots that propagate proximally. The optimal noninvasive techniques for imaging in the setting of recurrent DVT and other specialized settings (e.g., high-risk patients).

Patterns and distribution of isolated calf deep vein thrombosis

“…[1][2][3][4] Recent advances in color-flow duplex scanning (CFDS) have given investigators an accurate and noninvasive method of evaluation of the presence of thrombi in deep calf veins, thereby facilitating the investigation of DVT patterns. [4][5][6][7] Although conflicting studies exist on the origin of DVT, it is clear from several studies that many lower limb thrombi originate in the deep veins of the calf. 8,9 Calf DVT has been shown to be present in almost half of the symptomatic patients who…”

Functioning portacath with subclavian vein thrombosis: When to remove & when to leave?

“…The criteria used to diagnose venous thrombosis by CCDS included the absence of spontaneous flow and loss of cardiac and respiratory phasicity distal to the thrombosed vein Figure(1), the visualization of intraluminal thrombi surrounding the portacath Figure(2) and/or the inability to compress the vein. 3 The duplex scan played also an important role in follow up till re-canalization Figures( 3,4). Plain chest X-ray was done for all patients to verify the site of the catheter tip Figures( 5,6).…”