Name of the Procedure:

Venography, Extremity, Unilateral, Radiological Supervision and Interpretation
Common name(s): Extremity Venography, Extremity Venogram
Technical terms: Unilateral Extremity Venography, Phlebography

Summary

Venography of the extremity is a diagnostic imaging procedure that uses X-rays to visualize veins in a specific arm or leg. A contrast dye is injected into the vein to make it visible on the X-ray images, allowing doctors to assess for any abnormalities.

Purpose

Venography is used to diagnose vein conditions such as blood clots (deep vein thrombosis, or DVT), venous insufficiencies, blockages, or other vascular irregularities in one arm or leg. The goal is to identify and assess the venous structure to guide treatment decisions.

Indications

• Symptoms of DVT (e.g., swelling, pain, redness in one extremity)
• Chronic venous insufficiency
• Varicose veins
• Post-thrombotic syndrome
• Unexplained leg pain or swelling
• Pre-surgical mapping of veins

Preparation

• Patients may be asked to fast for a few hours before the procedure.
• Current medications should be discussed with the doctor, particularly blood thinners.
• Pre-procedure blood tests or kidney function tests may be necessary to ensure safe use of contrast dye.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies on an X-ray table, and an intravenous (IV) line is placed in the foot or hand of the affected extremity.
2. A contrast dye is injected through the IV, which travels through the veins.
3. X-ray images are taken to visualize the veins and identify any abnormalities.
4. The radiologist supervises and interprets the images in real-time.

Tools and Equipment:

• X-ray machine
• Contrast dye
• IV catheter
• Monitoring equipment

Anesthesia or Sedation:

• Local anesthesia may be applied at the IV insertion site to minimize discomfort.

Duration

The procedure typically takes about 30 to 60 minutes.

Setting

Venography is performed in a hospital radiology department or an outpatient imaging center.

Personnel

• Radiologist
• Radiologic technologist
• Nurse (for IV and contrast dye administration)

Risks and Complications

• Allergic reaction to contrast dye
• Infection at the IV site
• Bruising or bleeding at the injection site
• Rarely, blood clot formation or vein damage

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of vein conditions
• Informed treatment planning
• Non-invasive with minimal discomfort Results are often available shortly after the procedure, aiding in a quick diagnosis.

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home the same day.
• Keep the injection site clean and dry.
• Mild soreness or swelling at the injection site is possible and can be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to discuss results and next steps.

Alternatives

• Duplex ultrasound: Non-invasive and does not require contrast dye.
• Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV): Uses MRI technology, suitable for those with contrast dye allergies.
• CT Venography: Uses CT scanning and contrast dye, offering detailed images.

Each alternative has its pros and cons, like non-invasiveness, detailed imagery, or contraindications based on patient health.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel a cool sensation when the contrast dye is injected and some slight pressure at the injection site. Afterward, they may experience mild discomfort or bruising at the injection site, which usually resolves quickly. Pain management can include over-the-counter analgesics and keeping the injection site clean and dry.