VISUALIZATION OF CALF VEINS BY COLOR FLOW IMAGING

Both indirect and direct noninvasive tests have been shown to be useful for the detection of deep venous thrombi involving the proximal veins (popliteal to inferior vena cava). However, thrombi that are confined to the calf veins will not affect venous outflow and cannot be detected by the plethysmographic methods. B-mode imaging, while excellent for the major deep veins, is also limited in the calf region because the veins are small, and imaging resolution is not always adequate to permit visualization of these smaller veins. With the availability of duplex scanning with "slow flow" color capability, these veins lend themselves to study. In 30 normal subjects, we were able to visualize all paired veins from the level of the ankle to the popliteal fossa. The clinical implications of this approach are discussed. © 1990.