[Sequelae of unilateral deep venous thrombosis in plethysmography of the calf]

Twenty four patients suffering from unilateral venous disturbances revealed by Doppler and secondary to a deep venous thrombosis were examined. The calf venous haemodynamics was analyzed by use of a strain-jauge plethysmograph. We determined the increase in venous volume due to the inflation of a thigh pneumatic cuff (pressure at 20, 40 and 60 mm Hg; delta V20, delta V40, delta V60). The maximal venous output (Vout) was measured after a quick release of the 60 mm Hg pressure. The maximal venous drainage (VMM) was assessed during a rhythmic exercise (tiptoeing) while standing; delta V20, delta V40 and delta V60 were nearly constantly reduced on the abnormal side (t of Student respectively 3.49; 6.09 and 5.07). Vout dropped proportionaly to delta V60. Some abnormalities due to valvular insufficiency were frequently present in the beginning of the inflation curve at the level of the abnormal limbs. VMM was nearly always largely decreased on the affected side (t = 5.43). The unilateral flow disturbances displayed by the Doppler were regularly going with abnormalities of the capacitive system, well demonstrated by comparison with the non-affected limbs.