Brief Summary
This video provides an overview of what to expect during a venous mapping ultrasound, a non-invasive procedure used to assess lower extremity venous disease. It explains the process, including patient positioning, the use of ultrasound technology, and the importance of augmentation (compression) to evaluate blood flow direction and valve function. The video also highlights key anatomical structures and the significance of performing the augmentation in a standing position to replicate daily activities.
- Explanation of venous mapping ultrasound procedure.
- Importance of augmentation for assessing blood flow and valve function.
- Demonstration of normal valve function and blood flow direction.
Introduction to Venous Mapping Ultrasound
Dr. Charles Balkeley introduces the topic of venous mapping ultrasound, addressing common questions about the procedure's invasiveness. The goal is to inform viewers about what to expect during the venous mapping process, which follows a consultation and physical examination. The team includes experts like Jesse, the lead stereotactic breast biopsy tech, and JC, a lead from the venous ultrasound team specializing in lower extremity venous disease.
Setting Up for the Ultrasound
JC prepares to start the venous mapping ultrasound using an ultrasound probe with warmed gel. Jesse is positioned with her right leg turned outward in external rotation to expose the greater saphenous vein, which is located within its fascial sheath along the inseam of the jeans. Jesse is instructed to relax her limb and shift her weight to her rear leg to avoid excess pressure on the venous system, which is important for accurate augmentation.
Anatomy of the Venous System
The ultrasound focuses on the anatomy around the inguinal ligament, where the arterial, deep venous, and superficial venous systems converge to return blood from the lower extremity to the heart. Key structures identified include the common femoral vein, the greater saphenous vein, and the anterior accessory greater saphenous vein. The arterial structures are located immediately next to the deep veins, but the focus remains on the venous system.
Augmentation Process
Jessica, the nurse, prepares to perform the augmentation, which involves compressing the limb to assess blood flow direction. This is a critical step to determine if the veins are functioning correctly, ensuring blood flows from the lower extremity back towards the pelvis. The augmentation is performed with Jesse standing to simulate the effects of daily activities like walking, which helps in identifying valvular failure or venous reflux.
Saphenofemoral Junction and Valve Assessment
The compression starts at the saphenofemoral junction, where the superficial system connects to the deep system. JC scans to show the point where the greater saphenous vein dives into the deep system and identifies the valve structure. Jessica then squeezes Jesse's calf or distal thigh to observe blood flow and ensure the valve closes properly.
Doppler Interrogation and Valve Function
Color Doppler interrogation is used to visualize blood flow during the augmentation. When Jessica squeezes, a flash of blue indicates blood flowing down towards Jesse's pelvis, which is the correct direction. The waveform shows the blood shooting down and the valve closing as gravity pulls the blood back, preventing backflow. This normal valve function is essential for a healthy venous system.
Contact Information
The video concludes by encouraging viewers to schedule a consultation by calling 307-232-5054, reinforcing the clinic's commitment to helping patients achieve healthy legs.
