The non-invasive evaluation of an iliac vein stenosis remains a significant challenge. Furthermore, it is unclear which geometric configuration is the most important in causing resistance to flow. The minimum diameter has been proposed as a better index of resistance in contrast to a cross-sectional area reduction. This can be likened to a garden hose… Read More »
The term free-floating thrombus (FFT) is not exact because they are attached to the vein wall by a base and not actually “free”. A true free thrombus is termed an embolism. A FFT within the veins of the leg represents a potentially serious situation. Detachment can cause travel into the deep veins and then into… Read More »
Traditionally the management of a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) was easy and straight forward. Patients diagnosed would receive a short course of intravenous heparin followed by oral warfarin. The warfarin would be continued for 6 months. Compression stockings were advised and prescribed in most circumstances. Within the last 10 years the management of DVT has… Read More »
Anatomical dissections provide a unique insight into how veins function. Whilst they cannot demonstrate flow patterns resulting from muscular contraction they are able to illustrate the pathways available for drainage. Flow direction in health can be inferred by the direction of the valves. The foot venous pump (FVP) is a significant contributor to augmenting the… Read More »
Mechanical thrombo-prophylaxis devices have the potential to reduce venous thrombo-embolism (VTE) events without the risk of precipitating haemorrhage. This is pertinent especially for patients undergoing elective/emergency surgery or in trauma patients. MEHMET KURTOGLU Despite pharmacological prophylaxis, 50% of surgical patients with a Caprini score > 10 develop a VTE in the postoperative period. This suggests… Read More »
D-dimer levels are firmly established as a method of screening patients for venous thromboembolism (VTE). Their sensitivity of over 95% is such that normal levels in most cases can exclude a deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolism. However, their specificity is only about 50%. D-dimer levels rise in the elderly, during pregnancy, with immobility and… Read More »