A new ultrasonographic technique for diagnosing deep venous insufficiency—imaging and functional evaluation of venous valves by ultrasonography with improved resolution

Abstract

This is to demonstrate a new 2D-ultrasonographic technique which enabled clear resolution of deformed valves, visualization of venous reflux and quantitation of valve incompetence. In a 59-year-old Japanese female patient, ultrasonography was done using Aplio, Toshiba Medical Systems Co., Japan, equipped with 8 MHz linear probe capable of differential tissue harmonic imaging to diagnose the cause of her leg edema. Venous ultrasonography using this device at the popliteal venous valve in this patient demonstrated clear view of deformed venous valve and valve separation at one end of valvular agger while the other part of the valve is closed. Color Doppler failed to show venous reflux due to its low velocity. However, the appearance and disappearance of a thrombus-like echo could be imaged using 2D-ultrasonography. In addition, we were able to demonstrate the time-course change of valve opening and closing, and quantitate the valve incompetence using M-mode ultrasonography.