J Korean Radiol Soc.  2001 Nov;45(5):465-470. 10.3348/jkrs.2001.45.5.465.

The Usefulness of Three-Dimensional Gadolinium-Enhanced MR Venography for the Evaluation of Varices in Lower Extremities

• Ko MK
• Lee H
• Kang SG
• Choi JY
• Byun JN
• Jang JH
• Lim CH
• Kim YC

• KMID: 2200346
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.3348/jkrs.2001.45.5.465

Abstract

PURPOSE
To assess the performance of contrast-enhanced three-dimensional(3-D) magnetic resonance venography (MRV) of the pelvis and lower extremities in patients with varicose veins.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Ascending and MR venography were performed in seven legs of seven patients, and duplex Doppler sonography and MR venography in 15 legs of 12 patients, all referred for evaluation of varicose veins. For analysis, the venous system as revealed by ascending and MR venographic images was divided into 13 segments. For detection of reflux to the great saphenous vein, duplex Doppler sonography and MRV were performed.
RESULTS
In ascending venography and MRV, 91 venous segments were potentially visible; both modalities depicted 78 of these, but failed to detect four. Ascending venography and MRV detected 17 and 19 varices, respectively. When two tourniquets were placed around the ankle and knee using the Valsalva maneuver, MRV and duplex Doppler sonography detected reflux in 8 of 11 and 13 of 15 legs, respectively.
CONCLUSION
Contrast-enhanced 3-D MRV comprehensively displays the venous system of the lower extremities and permits assessment of varicose veins. MRV using the Valsalva maneuver allows assessment of reflux to the great saphenous vein.

Keyword

Magnetic resonance (MR), vascular studies; Magnetic resonance (MR), contrast enhancement; Extremity, MR; Venography

MeSH Terms

Ankle
Humans
Knee
Leg
Lower Extremity*
Pelvis
Phlebography*
Saphenous Vein
Tourniquets
Valsalva Maneuver
Varicose Veins*