NONINVASIVE TESTS IN VENOUS INSUFFICIENCY

Chronic venous insufficiency (CVI) is the result of out-flow obstructi on, reflux or a combination of both. Noninvasive tests detect an quant ify obstruction and reflux if present and define the anatomic localisa tion of the abnormality. In evaluating CVI noninvasive tests combine p hysiologic and imaging techniques. These tests are widely available, s imple, quick and cost-effective and therefore they are the methods of choice for initial objective evaluation. Different tests provide answe rs to different questions. The optimum clinically useful information c an be now obtained using only three instruments: pocket Doppler, duple x or color duplex scanner and air plethysmography. The value of ambula tory venous pressure, photoplethysmography and light reflection reogra phy, air plethysmography, duplex and color duplex scanning to assess r eflux and the value of tests to assess out-flow obstruction are presen ted. Pooled data collected from large studies are also presented for r eference. Qualitative and quantitative assessment of CVI are useful bo th for clinical assessment and to evaluate the effect of treatments.