Related Experiment Videos
Changing features of proximal vein thrombosis over time
A Cogo1, P Prandoni, S Villalta
1Department of Patologia Medica II, University Hospital of Padua, Italy.
Angiology
|May 1, 1994
Summary
Recent deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) cases show less extensive and occlusive thrombi. This trend may explain the decreased sensitivity of impedance plethysmography (IPG) in diagnosing proximal DVT.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Impedance plethysmography (IPG) sensitivity for acute deep-vein thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis is debated.
- Changes in DVT venographic patterns may impact diagnostic tool efficacy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate temporal changes in the venographic characteristics of proximal DVT.
- To determine if evolving DVT patterns correlate with reduced IPG sensitivity.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of two venogram series (1984-1988 vs. 1990-1992) for proximal DVT.
- Evaluation of thrombi extension, occlusiveness, and patient referral characteristics.
Main Results:
- Proximal DVT cases showed significantly decreased thrombi extension (lower iliac vein thrombosis prevalence).
- A significant increase in nonocclusive thrombi was observed in the later series.
- A decrease in overall proximal DVT prevalence and a slight, non-significant reduction in referral time were noted.
Conclusions:
- Current proximal deep-vein thrombi are less extensive and occlusive compared to historical data.
- Earlier referral of less symptomatic patients may contribute to these findings.
- Observed changes in DVT presentation could explain the declining sensitivity of IPG for proximal DVT diagnosis.