Point‐of‐care ultrasound for deep venous thrombosis of the lower limb

Abstract

The incidence and morbidity of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolus are high. Although efforts to increase screening for DVT have been recommended, this is limited by resources. Venous duplex ultrasound has replaced venography as the first-line investigation of choice for DVT, increasing availability and reducing patient exposure to radiation and intravenous contrast. Furthermore, an abbreviated ultrasound where DVT is inferred from incomplete venous compressibility has an equivalent accuracy to venous duplex, requiring less time and training enabling its widespread use by emergency, critical care and anaesthesia clinicians. In this review, the evolution and method of lower limb venous compression ultrasound is described along with evidence for its use in patients at high risk for DVT in these clinical settings.

Effect of a Multiorgan Focused Clinical Ultrasonography on Length of Stay in Patients Admitted With a Cardiopulmonary Diagnosis

“…The scanning followed the iHeartScan [39][40][41] and iLungScan 42 protocols, which were designed and validated by the Ultrasonography Education Group of the University of Melbourne, and the 2-point technique for assessing the lower extremity veins. 43,44 The definition of substantial cardiac abnormalities in this protocol correlates with moderate-to-severe abnormalities in a standard echocardiography. The following cardiac variables were assessed on the basis of 2-dimensional images and color flow Doppler ultrasonography: volume and systolic function of the left and right ventricles, left atrial filling pressure based on the interatrium septum movement, 45 regurgitation or stenosis of the cardiac valves, presence or absence of pericardial effusion, diameter and collapsibility index of inferior vena cava, and hemodynamic state assessment.…”

“…Ultrasonography equipment used included an X-Porte ultrasonography machine (Sonosite; Bothwell), using a 1- to 5-MHz phased-array transducer for heart and lungs and a 6- to 13-MHz linear ultrasonography transducer for deep veins of the lower limb. The scanning followed the iHeartScan and iLungScan protocols, which were designed and validated by the Ultrasonography Education Group of the University of Melbourne, and the 2-point technique for assessing the lower extremity veins . The definition of substantial cardiac abnormalities in this protocol correlates with moderate-to-severe abnormalities in a standard echocardiography.…”

An Unusual Case of May-Thurner Syndrome in a Middle-Aged IV Drug Abuser

“…A high index of suspicion is generally required while investigating the cause of DVT. In the case of suspicion of DVT, venous Doppler ultrasound is the investigation of choice initially to look for filling defects [ 5 ].…”

Effect of Clinical Nursing Pathway Intervention Based on Evidence-Based Medicine on Venous Thrombosis in Long-Term Bedridden Patients

“…As the patient was bedridden for a long time, skin care was also very important. Nurses needed to regularly supervise the family members to pat the patient's back, wipe the bath, massage, and turn over so as to avoid skin complications [ 19 ]. In case of any abnormality, communication with the doctor in time and dealing with it in time have to be carried out.…”