AGE-DETERMINATION OF VENOUS THROMBOSIS BY ULTRASOUND

In addition to diagnosing deep-vein thrombosis of the lower limb and pelvis, determination of the age of the thrombus is of considerable importance in guiding treatment. The present study was done to find out whether thrombus age can be determined by ultrasound morphology. 138 examinations were carried out on 76 lower limbs with phlebographically demonstrated thrombosed veins. Diameter of the thrombosed vein, echogenicity of the thrombus and demarkation of the venous wall from its surroundings were determined by colour-coded duplex sonography. The results were compared with histological evidence or with the age of the thrombus as determined by history and clinical course. The diameter of the thrombosed vein in conjunction with the history and clinical data makes it possible to determine the age of a thrombus. Echogenicity of the thrombus and demarcation of the venous wall do not provide any reliable information on thrombus age.