Three-dimensional contrastless varicography by spiral computed tomography.
OBJECTIVE
to report and discuss preliminary results obtained in varicose limbs by means of a volume rendering (VR)-computed tomography (CT) technique without contrast medium injection.


METHODS
VR-CT and duplex sonography (US) were performed to visualise the superficial veins of the lower extremity in eight healthy and 12 varicose limbs.


RESULTS
VR-CT clearly demonstrated the 3D arrangement of the superficial veins and visualised small sized veins which were not visible at US examination.


CONCLUSIONS
VR-CT is not suitable for routine evaluation of varicose limbs. VR-CT 3D reconstructions may be useful in the evaluation of atypical varicosis. Further studies are needed to define the role of VR-CT in deep venous disease.
Caggiati
A
A
Department of Anatomy, University of Rome, Rome, Italy
Ricci
S
S
Laghi
A
A
Luccichenti
G
G
Pavone
P
P
D000328:Adult; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D012501:Saphenous Vein / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D018616:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Duplex; D014648:Varicose Veins / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*