Comprehensive evaluation of patients suspected with deep vein thrombosis using indirect CT venography with multi-detector row technology: from protocol to interpretation.
With the increased availability of multi-detector row CT, indirect CT venography has become an important non-invasive image modality for patients with suspected deep vein thrombosis. Use of indirect CT venography can not only diagnose/exclude deep vein thrombosis, but can also determine if there are other anomalies or diseases which might contribute to the patient's symptoms. In this pictorial essay, we introduce the scanning protocol, post-processing techniques, and interpretation algorithm used in widely available 64 multi-detector row technology. We discuss several cases, including deep vein thrombosis in acute and chronic stages, anatomic variation, vena cava filter, and collateral veins. Lastly, we consider alternative diagnoses including varicose veins, infection, prosthesis failure of arthroplasty, traumatic vessel injury, and other musculoskeletal conditions. Radiologists should be familiar with the comprehensive interpretation of indirect CT venography to facilitate differential diagnosis and further treatment decision.
Lin
Yen-Ting
YT
Department of Radiology, Taichung Veterans General Hospital, No. 160, Sec. 3, Taichung Harbor Road, Taichung, 407, Taiwan, ROC. ymerically@gmail.com
Tsai
I-Chen
IC
Tsai
Wei-Lin
WL
Chen
Min-Chi
MC
Lin
Pao-Chun
PC
Chan
Si-Wa
SW
Chen
Clayton Chi-Chang
CC
D000465:Algorithms; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D010690:Phlebography / Q000379:methods*; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011857:Radiographic Image Interpretation, Computer-Assisted; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*