[Use of imaging procedures in the diagnosis of jugular vein thrombosis]

Based on ten patients suffering from internal jugular vein thrombosis the use of modern radiological procedures is discussed. The clinical examination should be followed by high-resolution ultrasonography. In most cases ultrasonography is able to reveal the correct diagnosis. Complementary computed tomography is recommended, if ultrasonography cannot establish the diagnosis of jugular vein thrombosis or if the thrombosis involves the v. cava superior, respectively the mediastinum. Retrograde catheter venography of the internal jugular vein is unnecessary, phlebography of one or both upper extremities should be completed, if the internal jugular vein thrombosis continues to the v. subclavia or v. cava superior and surgical intervention is discussed.