Early diagnosis of iliofemoral venous thrombosis by Doppler examination.
The diagnosis of iliofemoral venous thrombosis prior to its progression to phlegmasia cerulea dolens can be difficult and, at times, confusing. The Doppler ultrasound examination in experienced hands can be extremely reliable and rapid in diagnosing the condition. During an 18 month period, we used the Doppler examination to diagnose iliofemoral venous thrombosis in 21 patients, 15 of whom had corroboration by venogram. The key to successful treatment and avoidance of significant complications was early and accurate diagnosis by the Doppler examination. No patient underwent operation or progressed to venous gangrene. Six were treated with streptokinase and the rest, with intravenous heparin, leg elevation, and stockings. We believe that iliofemoral venous thrombosis is a much more common disease than previously recognized and should be vigorously diagnosed and treated when a patient presents with a symptomatic extremity. The Doppler ultrasound examination represents a rapid, reliable alternative to the venogram in the early diagnosis of iliofemoral venous thrombosis.
Hill
S L
SL
Department of Surgery, Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley, Virginia.
Martin
D
D
McDannald
E R
ER
Donato
A T
AT
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D005260:Female; D005268:Femoral Vein / Q000473:pathology*; D006493:Heparin / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007084:Iliac Vein / Q000473:pathology*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D013300:Streptokinase / Q000627:therapeutic use; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000628:therapy; D013997:Time Factors; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014859:Warfarin / Q000627:therapeutic use
D014859:Warfarin; D006493:Heparin; D013300:Streptokinase