Deep vein thrombosis other imaging findings

Editors-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. Associate Editor-In-Chief: Ujjwal Rastogi, MBBS [mailto:urastogi@perfuse.org]

Overview
A number of invasive and non-invasive approaches are possible. Doppler ultrasonography, due to its high sensitivity, specificity and reproducibility, has replaced venography as the most widely used test in the evaluation of the disease.

Imaging Techniques

 * 1) Impedance plethysmography : A venous thrombosis alters the normal response to temporary venous obstruction in a highly characteristic way. It causes a delay in emptying of the venous system after the release of the tourniquet.
 * 2) Doppler ultrasonography
 * 3) Compression ultrasound scanning of the leg veins, combined with duplex measurements (to determine blood flow)

can reveal a blood clot and its extent (i.e. whether it is below or above the knee).

Examples
Images courtesy of RadsWiki


 * Example #1: CT images: DVT at left leg