Computed tomography diagnosis of venous thrombosis of the lower extremities and pelvis with contrast material.
Venography using the combination of contrast material given intravenously in a vein in the arm and computed tomography scans allow the accurate diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis of the lower extremities and pelvis. The advantages of this method included actual visualization of the clot in the lumen of the vein, a more precise evaluation of the upper part of the thigh and pelvic area and the demonstration of adjacent abnormalities, which may contribute to the development of the thrombus. The opposite extremity is visualized at the same time for comparison of the venous systems and the associated muscle and limb swelling of the thrombosed side. There is less pain and risk of serious skin extravasation with contrast material given intravenously in the arm compared with the standard method for venogram using a foot vein. Repeat tests can be easily performed for follow-up studies after thrombolytic or anticoagulant therapy.
Bauer
A R
AR
Department of Surgery, St. Mark's Hospital, Salt Lake City, Utah.
Flynn
R R
RR
D001132:Arm / Q000098:blood supply; D003287:Contrast Media / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D006801:Humans; D007275:Injections, Intravenous; D010388:Pelvis / Q000098:blood supply*; D010690:Phlebography; D013924:Thrombophlebitis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D013927:Thrombosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
D003287:Contrast Media