Peripheral Venous Testing Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of the Valsalva maneuver during a lower extremity venous duplex examination?

Answer: Test valve competence at the saphenofemoral junction

The Valsalva maneuver increases intra-abdominal pressure, halting venous return and testing competence of the saphenofemoral junction valves.

A 45-year-old woman with varicose veins has duplex showing reflux at the saphenofemoral junction. Which additional vein should be systematically evaluated for a source of reflux?

Answer: Saphenopopliteal junction and small saphenous vein

The saphenopopliteal junction and small saphenous vein are a second major potential source of saphenous reflux and must be assessed.

In venous duplex imaging, 'augmentation' refers to which of the following?

Answer: Increase in venous flow velocity with distal manual compression

Augmentation is the transient increase in venous flow velocity produced by squeezing the limb distal to the transducer.

Which of the following perforator veins connects the posterior arch tributary of the great saphenous vein to the posterior tibial veins?

Answer: Cockett perforators

The Cockett perforators (paratibial perforators) connect the posterior arch vein or its tributaries to the posterior tibial veins.

A sonographer identifies a hypoechoic structure adjacent to the popliteal vein that does not compress and shows no internal flow. What is the most likely diagnosis?

Answer: Baker's cyst

A Baker's (popliteal) cyst is a common anechoic or hypoechoic structure in the popliteal fossa with no internal flow that can mimic DVT clinically.

When mapping veins pre-operatively for EVLT (endovenous laser therapy), the minimum acceptable vein diameter at the saphenofemoral junction is typically:

Answer: 5 mm

A minimum great saphenous vein diameter of approximately 5 mm at the junction is generally required for successful EVLT catheter placement.

Which condition is characterized by the absence or dysplasia of venous valves leading to primary deep venous reflux from birth?

Answer: Primary valvular incompetence (congenital)

Primary valvular incompetence, including congenital absence of valves, causes deep venous reflux without prior thrombotic event.