In our past two vascular blogs, we explained the cause of venous reflux and reviewed how to recognize and measure venous reflux. At our upcoming vascular workshop (July 15th) we will discuss in detail, compliant scanning protocols and the correct techniques for performing quality reflux exams. There is still time to register for our workshop with early bird pricing! This week in our blog we will review the diagnostic criteria for venous reflux.
We use the diagnostic criteria chosen by the physician. For the superficial system you do have options to choose anything over .5 seconds to be considered positive and the doctor will move forward with treatment from here.
However, most physicians choose to use more detailed diagnostic criteria such as Mild, Moderate or Severe as described below. You may notice not all machines measure in seconds. You will see for example 3000 ms or 3000 milliseconds which converts to 3 seconds. Every practice has their own preference for calling reflux in seconds or milliseconds so please check with the office.
When it comes to Deep Vein Reflux the numbers change. Reflux is considered present when the retrograde flow is greater than 1 second or 1000 milliseconds. This should be documented for the reading physician.
Ultrasound plays a vital role in identifying venous reflux. We will review the pathophysiology of venous reflux, signs and symptoms, ICAVL scanning protocols, diagnostic criteria for ablation, and much more at our upcoming Mastering Venous Reflux workshop.
Sign up before July 1st for the early registration discount!
