Functional status of the deep venous system after an episode of deep venous thrombosis

An episode of deep venous thrombosis is often followed by the opening of collaterals, fibrinolysis, recanalization and valvular dysfunction. The effect of these processes on the peak flow velocity in the superficial femoral and popliteal veins after simulated contraction of the calf muscles was tested in a group of normal subjects and three groups of patients who had deep venous thrombosis. There were 12 patients followed less than two years with no skin changes. The second group consisted of 12 patients followed for 8-15 years without ulceration. The third group of 12 patients had active or healed ulcers. The peak flow velocity in the superficial femoral and popliteal veins was assessed by rapidly inflating cuffs about the calf and ankle to 100 mmHg. The velocities generated by cuff compression were lower in patients than in normal subjects. This was particularly true in the superficial femoral vein. This change in velocity may be secondary to incomplete recanalization with resulting stenosis or valvular incompetence in the calf.