Duplex Ultrasound of Lower Limbs Venous System. Russian Phlebology Association Expert Panel Report

Abstract

Diplex ultrasound (DUS) is an imaging technique that is widely used in order to assess venous system conditions in healthy subjects and in patients with chronic venous disease, deep venous thrombosis and superficial thrombophlebitis. A thoroughly performed DUS is crucially important for precise diagnostics and treatment. DUS is widely accepted as mandatory in phlebology practice. These guidelines are drawn up by an expert group of the Russian Phlebological Association. The document systematizes data on the ultrasound anatomy of the veins of the lower extremities. It describes the main algorithms DUS as well as requirements for the configuration and settings of the ultrasound machine. The position of the patient during the study, ultrasound transducer placing, depending on the situation are presented. Criteria of pathologic venous reflux are described. Algorithms for DUS performing in different venous segments as well as in some clinical situations are presented. The document proposes example for conclu-sions based on the results of the ultrasound examination. Also, a lawyer’s report based on the results of the analysis of the regulatory documentation, and devoted to the justification of the use of DUS by phlebologists in their clinical practice, is presented. Guidelines are addressed to ultrasound diagnostics specialists, phlebologists, vascular specialists, general surgeons and others.