Ultrasound as a complementary diagnostic method in deep vein thrombosis of the leg

The ultrasound method for detection of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) of the leg has been used in a study comprising 47 patients. This method was compared in the same group with a clinical evaluation and was controlled by venography. Clinical evaluation gave a correct diagnosis in 28 (59.6%) of 47 patients, false positive or false negative in 19 (40.4%). With the ultrasound method, the correct diagnosis was made in 41 (87.2%) of 47 patients, false positive in 3 (6.4%) and false negative in 3 (6.4%). No cases were missed of thrombosis situated proximal to the popliteal vein. The method was less accurate in cases of thrombosis situated in or distal of the popliteal vein; the 3 patients in whom a false negative diagnosis was made, belonged to this group. Since the ultrasound method has been shown to give few false positive and false negative results, it should be suitable as a screening procedure in patients with symptoms suggestive of DVT.