Variation of lower extremity venous function in normal individuals

ABSTRACT

The change in venous function during the course of the day was studied non-invasively in 50 normal lower extremities of 25 physically active normal subjects. Venous refilling time, measured by photoplethysmography, was significantly shorter [p < 0.0001], and venous capacitance, measured by impedance plethysmography, was significantly reduced [p < 0.04] after 5 hours or more of daily activities performed in the upright position. Abnormally short venous refilling time [less than 18 seconds] developed in 21% of the extremities, which had a normal venous refilling time earlier in the same day. Lower extremity symptoms of ache, pain, or swelling were reported more frequently in extremities that developed an abnormal venous refilling time. There was a trend toward. a greater change in venous refilling time during the day in symptomatic lower extremities than in asymptomatic limbs [p = 0.07]