[Functional exploration and post-phlebitic surveillance. Reproducibility of venous plethysmography]

Fifty-five patients with unilateral deep thrombophlebitis of lower limbs were followed up for a mean duration of 15 months after the acute onset (178 series of plethysmographic measurements). Statistical analysis showed excellent reproducibility of venous plethysmographic parameters (capacitance and emptying rate) both on healthy and affected sides. Best values for emptying were observed after thrombolysis in situ but the difference was not significant in relation to heparin therapy. The application of a filter or a caval clip provoked bilateral, symmetrical slowing of venous emptying during the first few months, with a tendency for normal values to be restored after one year. The ratio of emptying rates (affected side/healthy side) was less than 60% if venous obstruction persisted with or without deep devalvulation. A lack of significant correlation existed between clinical course and plethysmographic parameters, 15 months after the initial episode, capacitance and venous emptying remaining pathologic allowing retrospective diagnosis. A longer follow up (5 to 10 years) with the same protocol is projected.