[Diagnostic value of the combination of echography-plethysmography in deep venous thromboses of the legs]

Abstract

The association of two non invasive methods: real time ultrasonography and plethysmography was studied prospectively for the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in 70 patients. Their results were compared to contrast venography considered to the reference procedure. Venography showed DVT in 32 patients. Ultrasonography had a sensitivity of 69% and a specificity of 98%. The false negative results were related to iliac or calf vein thrombosis. Plethysmography had lower results than US (Se = 57%, Sp = 90%). In this study the sensivity of the two methods, either isolated or associated was not sufficient to allow their substitution to venography. Their association in all cases did not give better results than US alone. Because of its high specificity US can be performed first in cases of suspicion of DVT, especially in high risk patients. Plethysmography seems not to be necessary for the diagnosis.