Mycotic Aneurysm Detected by the Axiom: Scan Where the Pain Is

Abstract

The lower extremity venous duplex scan is one of the most frequently ordered examinations in the vascular laboratory. Many laboratories will use the protocol format on the ultrasound machine to decrease time spent on examinations and increase productivity. The sonographer needs to be sure to obtain a thorough examination and not simply be led by the images to be acquired in the protocol setting. In addition, with more and more emphasis on sonographer productivity, it is tempting to do the test requested, move on to the next test, and let other professionals deal with the patient's symptoms. A recent interesting case in the vascular laboratory is used as an example of deviating from a strictly protocol-driven test to listening to the patient's complaints and scanning the symptomatic area.