Name of the Procedure:

Venous Thrombosis Imaging, Venogram; Unilateral

Summary

A venogram is a medical imaging procedure used to visualize veins, primarily to detect blood clots (venous thrombosis) in a specific limb. The term "unilateral" indicates that only veins in one limb (either an arm or a leg) are examined during the procedure.

Purpose

The primary purpose of the venogram is to diagnose the presence and extent of venous thrombosis, which are blood clots that form in veins, obstructing blood flow. The goals include confirming a blood clot diagnosis, determining its location and size, and aiding in planning appropriate treatment.

Indications

• Swelling, pain, or redness in a limb, suggestive of a blood clot
• Unexplained leg or arm pain
• Varicose veins with severe symptoms
• Pre-operative assessment before surgery
• Follow-up evaluation for patients with a known history of venous thrombosis

Preparation

• Patients may be instructed to fast for several hours before the procedure.
• Regular medications may need to be adjusted; specific instructions will be provided by the healthcare provider.
• A blood test may be required to check for clotting ability and kidney function.
• Wearing loose, comfortable clothing and leaving jewelry at home is advised.

Procedure Description

1. The patient will lie on an examination table.
2. An intravenous (IV) line will be inserted into a vein in the affected limb.
3. A contrast dye is injected through the IV to highlight the veins.
4. X-rays or fluoroscopy images are taken to visualize the flow of the dye through the veins, identifying any blockages or abnormalities.
5. The procedure is generally painless, though some patients may feel a warm sensation as the dye is injected.
6. After imaging, the IV line is removed, and the injection site is bandaged.

Duration

The venogram typically takes between 30 minutes to an hour.

Setting

The procedure is performed in a hospital's radiology or imaging department.

Personnel

• Radiologist or Interventional Radiologist (physician specialized in imaging)
• Radiologic Technologist (assists with imaging equipment)
• Nurse (for patient care and IV insertion)

Risks and Complications

• Mild discomfort or bruising at the IV site
• Allergic reaction to the contrast dye
• Infection at the injection site
• Rarely, kidney problems due to contrast dye
• Potential for blood clots to dislodge, though this is very uncommon

Benefits

• Accurate diagnosis of venous thrombosis
• Detailed information for targeted treatment plans
• Minimally invasive with relatively low risk
• Early detection can prevent complications like pulmonary embolism

Recovery

• Patients can usually go home shortly after the procedure.
• Keeping the injection site clean and dry for 24 hours is important.
• Normal activities can typically be resumed quickly, though strenuous activities should be avoided for a day or two.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled to review results and discuss treatment.

Alternatives

• Doppler Ultrasound: Non-invasive and commonly used, but less detailed than venography.
• Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV): Uses magnetic fields, suitable for patients allergic to iodine-based contrast.
• Computed Tomography Venography (CTV): Advanced imaging with a similar contrast dye risk but offers rapid and detailed images.

Patient Experience

During the procedure, patients may feel slight pain or a warm sensation from the dye injection. Afterward, mild soreness at the IV site is possible, and any discomfort is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. Following post-procedure care instructions ensures a smooth recovery.