Abstract

guidelines for lower extremity ultrasound venous imaging describe minimum standards for imaging protocols and reporting as well as qualifications for those individuals performing and interpreting these studies. The accuracy of the non-invasive venous study depends on the knowledge, skill and experience of the technologist or physician performing the studies, and the knowledge, skill and experience of the physician interpreting the studies. The ultrasound investigation in patients with chronic venous disease (CVD) is very different from examinations to rule out deep vein thrombosis. Most examinations for CVD are for diagnosis and planning for treatment of venous insufficiency. The information gathered by the duplex investigation has a significant impact on what type of treatment will be most appropriate and therefore recommended. Failure to identify and treat all sources of reflux may result in outright treatment failure. Duplex ultrasound is essential to the performance of endovenous ablative procedures including endovenous laser, radiofrequency occlusion, and ultrasound-guided sclerotherapy. The examination may be used for outcome assessment after treatment.