1) Describe the US criteria for diagnosis of DVT in the upper and lower extremities. 2) Discuss common pitfalls in US evaluation of DVT. 3) Discuss current controversies in the US evaluation of DVT such as: acute vs chronic (residual) DVT; use of the D-dimer assay; should the calf veins be evaluated; is it appropriate to do unilateral exams. 4) Describe the role of US in identifying other causes of extremity pain and swelling.
This lecture will describe the technique and diagnostic criteria for the US diagnosis of DVT in the upper and lower extremities. Common pitfalls in sonographic assessment of DVT will be described as well as current clinical questions in US evaluation of patients suspected of harboring DVT such as: what is the importance of pre-test probability?, what is the role of the D-dimer assay?, how to differentiate acute from chronic DVT?, and should the calf veins be routinely examined? In addition, the US appearance of other causes of extremity pain and swelling will be described as US has been shown to be useful in making alternative diagnoses, which are often important for patient management, in up to 10% of cases.
Scoutt, L,
Upper and Lower Extremity Veins. Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL.
http://archive.rsna.org/2014/13010316.html
