The Value of Doppler Venous Pressure Index in Chronic Venous Disease of the Lower Limbs

Background: The diagnostic evaluation of chronic venous disease (CVD) of the lower limbs (LLs) is mainly based on duplex ultrasound (DUS). Invasive venous pressure measurements (VPMs) are seldom performed in specialized centers with still controversial results. The noninvasive Doppler method has not been accepted as a validate method as the emerging values are influenced by several environmental and biological factors, and do not correspond to hydrostatic pressure. Therefore, these values will be defined as venous pressure index (VPI). In our previous experience, the VPI was accepted by patients in the daily practice, and the VPI was significantly correlated with C of C.E.A.P. (P SSV; GSV with isolated R at the leg > GSV at the thigh; additional R in perforators increases VPI in all the superficial districts; superficial R increases VPI in PTV. Conclusions: Standing VPI is the significant expression of the hemodynamic alteration in the various venous districts. R of GSV at the leg and in perforators is related with higher VPI and severity of the disease. Superficial venous hypertension is correlated with deep venous hypertension. Doppler VPI measurement is a simple repeatable, highly predictive investigation; it furnishes precious hemodynamic information for selection, treatment and follow-up of patients. J Curr Surg. 2015;5(4):188-198 doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.14740/jcs282e