Left common iliac vein compression identified by vascular ultrasonography in asymptomatic women: does standing position influence diagnosis?

BACKGROUND: Vascular ultrasonography is the imaging exam of choice for initial screening for left common iliac vein compression, which is an asymptomatic finding that can be detected in up to 25% of some patient samples. OBJECTIVE: To determine, using vascular ultrasonography, whether findings of left common iliac vein compression in asymptomatic women are different when assessed in the prone and standing positions. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional observational study of 50 adult female volunteers with no symptoms of pelvic venous compression. The parameters assessed with vascular ultrasonography in the prone and standing positions were diameters and maximum velocities of the left common iliac vein at the point at which it crosses behind the right common iliac artery and before this point, in addition to left common iliac vein velocity indices at the crossing. RESULTS: Eight cases of significant compression of the left common iliac vein were identified when assessed in prone position (16%) and just two cases (4%) were identified in the standing position. Left common iliac vein diameters were statistically larger (p = 0.002) at the point where it crosses behind the right common iliac artery in the standing position and velocities and velocity indices were statistically higher (p < 0.001) in the prone position. No significant compression of the left common iliac vein was identified in the standing position when velocity indices were normal in the prone position. CONCLUSIONS: There was no difference in detection of significant compression of the left common iliac vein when assessed in the standing position in comparison with assessment in the prone position. However, the study showed that anatomic compression of the left common iliac vein may be reduced in the standing position.

Identificação pela ultrassonografia vascular da compressão da veia ilíaca comum esquerda em mulheres assintomáticas: ortostatismo pode influenciar o diagnóstico? / Left common iliac vein compression identified by vascular ultrasonography in asymptomatic women: does standing position influence diagnosis?

Resumo Contexto A ultrassonografia vascular é o exame de imagem de escolha para rastreamento inicial da compressão na veia ilíaca comum esquerda, cujo achado assintomático pode ser encontrado em até 25% em algumas casuísticas. Objetivo Identificar, pela ultrassonografia vascular, se há diferença na avaliação da compressão na veia ilíaca comum esquerda em mulheres assintomáticas em decúbito dorsal e ao ortostatismo. Métodos Trata-se de um estudo observacional transversal em 50 mulheres voluntárias, sem sintomas de compressão venosa pélvica. Os parâmetros avaliados pela ultrassonografia vascular em decúbito dorsal e ao ortostatismo foram os diâmetros e as velocidades máximas na veia ilíaca comum esquerda no local do cruzamento com a artéria ilíaca comum direita e antes desse cruzamento, além dos índices de velocidade na veia ilíaca comum esquerda no local do cruzamento. Resultados Foram identificados oito casos de compressão significativa na veia ilíaca comum esquerda na avaliação em decúbito dorsal (16%) e somente dois casos (4%) ao ortostatismo. Os diâmetros na veia ilíaca comum esquerda foram estatisticamente maiores (p = 0,002) no local de cruzamento com a artéria ilíaca comum direita ao ortostatismo, e as velocidades e índices de velocidades foram estatisticamente maiores (p < 0,001) em decúbito dorsal. Não houve identificação de compressão significativa na veia ilíaca comum esquerda em ortostatismo quando os índices de velocidades estavam normais em decúbito dorsal. Conclusão Não houve diferença na detecção de compressão significativa da veia ilíaca comum esquerda ao ortostatismo em relação ao decúbito dorsal; no entanto, o estudo mostrou que pode haver menor compressão anatômica da veia ilíaca comum esquerda em posição ortostática.

Abstract Background Vascular ultrasonography is the imaging exam of choice for initial screening for left common iliac vein compression, which is an asymptomatic finding that can be detected in up to 25% of some patient samples. Objective To determine, using vascular ultrasonography, whether findings of left common iliac vein compression in asymptomatic women are different when assessed in the prone and standing positions. Methods This is a cross-sectional observational study of 50 adult female volunteers with no symptoms of pelvic venous compression. The parameters assessed with vascular ultrasonography in the prone and standing positions were diameters and maximum velocities of the left common iliac vein at the point at which it crosses behind the right common iliac artery and before this point, in addition to left common iliac vein velocity indices at the crossing. Results Eight cases of significant compression of the left common iliac vein were identified when assessed in prone position (16%) and just two cases (4%) were identified in the standing position. Left common iliac vein diameters were statistically larger (p = 0.002) at the point where it crosses behind the right common iliac artery in the standing position and velocities and velocity indices were statistically higher (p < 0.001) in the prone position. No significant compression of the left common iliac vein was identified in the standing position when velocity indices were normal in the prone position. Conclusions There was no difference in detection of significant compression of the left common iliac vein when assessed in the standing position in comparison with assessment in the prone position. However, the study showed that anatomic compression of the left common iliac vein may be reduced in the standing position.

Bilateral anterior tibial artery entrapment by the ankle extensor retinaculum: case report.

Vascular entrapment is rare. In the lower limbs it is generally asymptomatic, but may cause atypical intermittent claudication in young people without risk factors for atherosclerosis and inflammatory diseases. The most common type of compression involves the popliteal artery, causing symptoms in the region of the infra-patellar muscles. When discomfort is more distal, other entrapment points should be considered, such as the anterior tibial artery. This article reports the case of a patient with intermittent claudication in both feet due to extrinsic compression of the anterior tibial artery bilaterally by the extensor retinaculum of the ankle, diagnosed by vascular ultrasonography and angiotomography during plantar flexion maneuvers. The patient was treated surgically, resulting in improvement of clinical symptoms.

Síndrome do aprisionamento da artéria tibial anterior bilateral pelo retináculo extensor do tornozelo: relato de caso / Bilateral anterior tibial artery entrapment by the ankle extensor retinaculum: case report

Resumo Os aprisionamentos vasculares são raros. Nos membros inferiores, geralmente são assintomáticos, mas podem causar claudicação intermitente atípica em indivíduos jovens sem fatores de risco para aterosclerose ou doenças inflamatórias. O vaso mais frequentemente acometido é a artéria poplítea, causando a síndrome do aprisionamento da artéria poplítea (SAAP), com sintomas na região dos músculos infrapatelares. Quando o desconforto ao esforço é mais distal, deve-se pensar em outros locais de aprisionamento arterial, como a artéria tibial anterior. Neste trabalho, é relatado o caso de um paciente com claudicação intermitente nos pés devido ao aprisionamento da artéria tibial anterior (AATA) bilateral, causado pelo retináculo dos músculos extensores e diagnosticado pela ultrassonografia vascular e angiotomografia durante flexão plantar. O paciente foi tratado cirurgicamente, evoluindo com melhora dos sintomas clínicos.

Abstract Vascular entrapment is rare. In the lower limbs it is generally asymptomatic, but may cause atypical intermittent claudication in young people without risk factors for atherosclerosis and inflammatory diseases. The most common type of compression involves the popliteal artery, causing symptoms in the region of the infra-patellar muscles. When discomfort is more distal, other entrapment points should be considered, such as the anterior tibial artery. This article reports the case of a patient with intermittent claudication in both feet due to extrinsic compression of the anterior tibial artery bilaterally by the extensor retinaculum of the ankle, diagnosed by vascular ultrasonography and angiotomography during plantar flexion maneuvers. The patient was treated surgically, resulting in improvement of clinical symptoms.

Identificação pela ultrassonografia vascular dos diâmetros das veias safenas magnas sem refluxo em mulheres / Vascular ultrasonographic measurement of diameters of great saphenous veins without reflux in women

Contexto: A ultrassonografia vascular (UV) é o exame de escolha para estudar o sistema venoso superficial dos membros inferiores e mensurar o diâmetro das veias safenas, podendo ser utilizada como parâmetro para o planejamento cirúrgico. Objetivos: Identificar pela UV os diâmetros de veias safenas magnas sem refluxo em mulheres e sua relação com a idade, altura, Classificação Clínica, Etiologia, Anatomia e Fisiopatologia (CEAP) e índice de massa corporal (IMC). Métodos: Estudo transversal em mulheres com sintomas de IVC primária (C0, 1 ou 2), sem cirurgia prévia de varizes e sem refluxo detectado pela UV, nas quais foram mensurados os diâmetros da veia safena magna (VSM) na crossa, coxa e perna, que foram comparados com a idade, altura, classe clínica CEAP e IMC. Resultados: Foram avaliadas 353 mulheres, das quais 146 foram incluídas no estudo sendo 88 avaliadas unilateralmente e 58 bilateralmente. Os diâmetros encontrados para a VSM sem refluxo foram de aproximadamente 6,5 mm na crossa, 4,0 mm na coxa proximal, 3.0 mm na coxa médio-distal e joelho e 2,5 mm na perna. Em todos os segmentos mensurados houve diferença estatisticamente significativa (p < 0,05) na correlação dos diâmetros com IMC. Não houve diferença estatística na correlação da medida dos diâmetros com classe CEAP, altura e idade das pacientes. Conclusões: Observou-se que os diâmetros de veias safenas magnas sem refluxo independem da classe clínica CEAP 0 ou 1 e 2; da idade e da altura das pacientes. Entretanto, os diâmetros da VSM se relacionam significativamente com o IMC das pacientes

Background: Vascular ultrasonography (VU) is the examination of choice for studying the superficial venous system of the lower limbs and using VU to measure the diameters of saphenous veins could provide parameters for planning surgery. Objectives: To employ VU to identify the diameters of great saphenous veins free from reflux in women and determine their relationships with age, height, CEAP classification, and body mass index (BMI). Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in women with symptoms of primary chronic venous insufficiency (CEAP C0, 1, or 2) with no previous varicose vein surgery and no reflux detected by VU. The diameters of great saphenous veins (GSV) at the junction, thigh, and leg were measured with VU and correlated with age, height, CEAP clinical classification, and BMI. Results: We assessed 204 limbs in 146 women. The GSV diameters measured were 6.5 mm at the saphenofemoral junction, 4.0 mm at the proximal thigh, 3.0 mm at the mid thigh, distal thigh, and knee and 2.5 mm at the leg. In all segments measured, there were statistically significant differences (p<0.05) when diameters were correlated with BMI. There were no statistically significant differences when diameters were correlated with CEAP class, height, or age. Conclusions: We observed that the diameters of great saphenous veins free from reflux were independent of CEAP clinical classes 0/1 or 2; age; and height. However, GSV diameters were significantly related to patients' BML

Identification of diagnostic maneuvers positive for arterial compression in symptomatic or asymptomatic individuals who engage in regular weight training / Identificação de manobras semiológicas positivas para a compressão arterial em indivíduos sintomáticos e assintomáticos que realizam regularmente musculação

Arterial compression syndromes can be identified in asymptomatic individuals using specific diagnostic maneuvers involving palpation of peripheral pulses. OBJECTIVE: To identify diagnostic maneuvers positive for extrinsic compression in the upper and lower limbs of people who exercise regularly. METHODS: The sample consisted of people over 18 years old who had been attending a gym for a minimum of 1 hour per week and for at least 1 month. A data collection instrument comprising 20 questions was administered to the study participants, covering personal characteristics, the types of exercises engaged in and possible symptoms. The Adson, Hyperabduction and Costoclavicular maneuvers and also tests to reveal popliteal artery entrapment were performed. Data from the questionnaires and the maneuver results were analyzed using SPSS v.20.0. RESULTS: The study enrolled 202 volunteers who attended the gyms investigated, comprising 98 women and 104 men aged 18 to 63 (mean of 27 years). One hundred and seventy (84.2%) subjects were asymptomatic and 32 (15.8%) people reported some type of discomfort such as pain, paresthesia or a cool sensation. Ninety of the 202 individuals analyzed (44.6%) exhibited at least one positive maneuver. Total numbers of compressions per subject were as follows: two people (1%) had four positive maneuvers; 19 (9.4%) had three positive maneuvers; 31 (15.3%) had two positive maneuvers, 38 (18.8%) exhibited one positive maneuver and 112 (55 4%) people were positive for none of the maneuvers. The hyperabduction maneuver was the most prevalent maneuver. CONCLUSION: Diagnostic maneuvers positive for extrinsic arterial compression were identified in 44.6% of the asymptomatic individuals analyzed...

As síndromes compressivas arteriais podem ser identificadas em indivíduos assintomáticos por manobras semiológicas específicas, com a palpação dos pulsos periféricos. OBJETIVO: Identificar manobras semiológicas positivas para compressão extrínseca em membros superiores e inferiores em indivíduos que realizam regularmente musculação. MÉTODOS: a amostra consistiu de pessoas maiores de 18 anos que frequentaram, por pelo menos um mês, no mínimo uma hora por semana, a academia. Os participantes da pesquisa preencheram um questionário de 20 questões que abordava características pessoais, exercícios praticados e eventuais sintomas. Foram realizadas as manobras de Adson, Hiperabdução, Costoclavicular e para aprisionamento da artéria poplítea. Os resultados dos questionários e das manobras realizadas foram avaliados com o programa computacional SPSS v.20.0. RESULTADOS: foram incluídos no estudo 202 voluntários que frequentaram as academias escolhidas, sendo 98 mulheres e 104 homens, com idade entre 18 e 63 anos (média de 27 anos). Cento e setenta (84,2%) indivíduos eram assintomáticos e 32 (15,8%) referiram algum tipo de desconforto, como dor, sensação de esfriamento ou parestesia. Dos 202 indivíduos avaliados, 90 (44,6%) apresentaram alguma das manobras positivas. Com relação ao número de compressões, dois indivíduos (1%) apresentaram quatro manobras positivas; 19 (9,4%), três manobras; 31(15,3%), duas manobras; 38 (18,8%), uma manobra, e 112 (55,4%), nenhuma. A manobra de hiperabdução foi a mais prevalente dentre as manobras realizadas. CONCLUSÃO: foram identificadas manobras semiológicas positivas para compressão extrínseca arterial em 44,6% dos indivíduos assintomáticos avaliados...

Ultrasound tissue characterization of the normal kidney.

AIM: Ultrasound tissue characterization (USTC) is a precursor of ultrasound virtual histology (USVH), already applied to B-mode images of coronary, carotid, and peripheral arteries, as well as venous thrombosis. Elevated echogenicity has been described for a rejected transplanted kidney. We analyzed data from healthy young adults as reference for further renal USTC. METHODS: Ultrasound kidney images of 10 volunteers were analyzed. Pixel brightness in the 0-to-255 range was rescaled to zero for black and 200 for fascia brightness before automatic classification into 14 ranges, including "blood-like" (0-4), "fat-like" (8-26), "hypoechoic muscle-like" (41-60), "hyperechoic muscle-like" (61-76), 4 ranges of "fiber-like" (112-196), "calcium-like" (211-255) and intermediary intervals. Nomenclature was readapted using nonechoic, hypoechoic I to IV, echoic I to IV, hyperechoic I to IV, and saturated echoes to avoid inference to actual kidney tissue. Descriptive and comparative statistics were based on percentages of pixels in specific brightness ranges. SAMPLE POPULATION: Eight women and 2 men, 26 ± 4 years (range, 22-34 years) old, were studied. Kidney length was 10.5 ± 0.9 cm (9.0-12.0 cm). Doppler US resistivity index was 0.67 ± 0.03 (0.62-0.71). RESULTS: Original fascia brightness converted to 200 value had a mean ± SD of 206 ± 16 (range, 181-236). Kidney grayscale median averaged 37 ± 6 (27-48). Most pixels were hypoechoic II to IV (8-60), averaging 78% ± 6% (66%-87%). Percentages for fat-like, intermediary fat/muscle-like, and hypoechoic muscle-like intervals averaged 25%, 28%, and 25%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: A reference database for USTC/USVH of normal young kidneys was created for future comparisons with transplanted and abnormal kidneys. Normal renal echoes have low brightness. Hyperechoic pixels may represent abnormalities.

Assessment of deep venous thrombosis by grayscale median analysis of ultrasound images.

AIM: This study aimed to determine whether grayscale median (GSM) ultrasound (US) analysis could differentiate acute from subacute femoropopliteal deep venous thrombosis (DVT) classified based on (a) the time of symptoms onset and (b) sonographers' evaluation of US images. METHODS: Patients who had US because of suspected DVT were included. Patients with history of previous DVT, with normal US results or US with findings of isolated calf thrombosis were excluded. A total of 128 venous segments of 63 patients were analyzed. Thrombosed veins and adjacent arteries images were recorded. Thrombi GSM were calculated. Grayscale median was compared with (a) the time of symptoms onset and (b) US image thrombi classification as acute or subacute done by 2 sonographers blinded to patient information. Statistical analysis included GSM Pearson intraobserver variability and t test comparisons of GSM means for (a) short versus long onset periods and (b) acute versus subacute US class, χ comparison between onset history and US class, creation of GSM accuracy, predictive values, and sensitivity curves for acute versus subacute DVT. RESULTS: Intraobserver variability correlation varied between 0.92 and 0.95. Thrombus mean GSM was 23 ± 12 versus 31 ± 16 if symptoms onset was shorter or longer than 2 weeks (P = 0.004). Mean GSM was 20 ± 11 versus 35 ± 14 for acute versus subacute thrombi (P < 0.001). Acute thrombi correlated with onset shorter than 2 weeks (P < 0.001). Grayscale median less than 13, equal to 22, or 33 or less had 85% positive predictive value (17/20), 77% accuracy (98/128), and 90% sensitivity (53/59) to differentiate acute from subacute thrombi. CONCLUSIONS: Grayscale median of US images documenting femoropopliteal DVT correlated with (a) the time between symptoms onset and US examination and (b) the sonographers' interpretation of acute versus subacute thrombosis.

Desnutrição, inflamação e arterosclerose em pacientes renais crônicos em tratamento hemodialítico / Malnutrition, inflammation and atherosclerosis in chronic renal patients on hemodialysis / La malnutrición, la inflamación y la aterosclerosis en pacientes renales crónicos en hemodiálisis

Pacientes com doença renal crônica apresentam altas taxas de mortalidade cuja principal causa é a doença cardiovascular (DCV). A inflamação crônica e a desnutrição são altamente prevalentes na doença renal e se associam à arterosclerose, contribuindo com o aumento dessas taxas. Objetivo: Avaliar os componentes desnutrição, inflamação e arterosclerose em pacientes em hemodiálise (HD). Método: Estudo quantitativo, transversal e não controlado. Foram selecionados consecutivamente 30 pacientes com mais de 3 meses em tratamento hemodialítico, durante o período de abril de 2005 a abril de 2006. Foi elaborado um instrumento de coleta de dados com informações relevantes, como idade, altura, peso seco, tempo em HD, presença de diabetes e outras. Foi aplicada a avaliação subjetiva global modificada (ASGm) e analisados os dados de ecodoppler de carótida, proteína-C reativa, fibriogênio, homocisteína, HDL-colesterol, LDL, triglicerídeos, albumina, índice de massa corporal (IMC) e medida de equivalente protéico de aparecimento de nitrogênio total (PNA). A análise estatística das variáveis foi realizada mediante aplicação de testes paramétricos e não-paramétricos e foram considerados resultados estatisticamente significativos no nível de 5% (p<0,05). Resultados: os resultados mostraram 80% de desnutrição pela ASGm. A prevalência de diabetes mellitus foi de 33,3%, 86,7% de hipertensão e 40% de doença cardíaca prévia. O IMC médio foi 24,6 +- 4,8 (23,9) kg/m², albumina 4,18 +- 0,38 (4,2) g/dl, PNA 0,93 +- 0,29 (0,9) g/kg/dia, homocisteína 18,1 +- 9,9 (17) mmol/l, fibriogênio 263,86 +- 90,3 (229) mg/dl, LDL 81,01 +- 27,5 (84) mg/dl, HDL 41 +- 10,68 (41,7) mg/dl e estes resultados não apresentaram diferença significativa entre os grupos de desnutridos e eutróficos. A mediana de PCR foi de 0,545 (0,037 a 3,75) mg/dl com diferença significativa entre os grupos...

Patients with chronic kidney disease have high rates of mortality whose main cause is cardiovascular disease (CVD). Chronic inflammation and malnutrition are highly prevalent in renal disease and are associated with atherosclerosis, contributing to the increase in these rates. Objective: To evaluate the components malnutrition, inflammation and atherosclerosis in patients on hemodialysis (HD). Method: A cross-sectional and uncontrolled. We selected 30 consecutive patients over three months on hemodialysis, during the period April 2005 to April 2006. A means of collecting data with relevant information such as age, height, dry weight, time on HD, presence of diabetes and others. Was applied as modified subjective global assessment (ASGm) and analyzed data from carotid artery Doppler, C-reactive protein, fibriogênio, homocysteine, HDL cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, albumin, body mass index (BMI) and measure of equivalent protein of total nitrogen appearance (PNA). Statistical analysis of variables was performed by applying parametric tests and non-parametric and were considered statistically significant at 5% (p <0.05). Results: Results showed 80% of malnutrition by ASGm. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus was 33.3%, 86.7% hypertension and 40% of previous heart disease. The mean BMI was 24.6 + - 4.8 (23.9) kg / m², albumin 4.18 + - 0.38 (4.2) g / dl, NAP + 0.93 - 0.29 (0 9) g / kg / day, homocysteine 18.1 + - 9.9 (17) mmol / l, fibriogênio 263.86 + - 90.3 (229) mg / dl, LDL + 81.01 - 27.5 (84) mg / dl, HDL 41 + - 10.68 (41.7) mg / dl and these results showed no significant difference between groups of malnourished and well nourished. The median CRP was 0.545 (0.037 to 3.75) mg / dl with a significant difference between groups...

Los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica tienen altas tasas de mortalidad, cuya principal causa es la enfermedad cardiovascular (ECV). La inflamación crónica y la malnutrición son muy prevalentes en la enfermedad renal y están asociados con la aterosclerosis, lo que contribuye al aumento de estos precios. Objetivo: Evaluar la malnutrición componentes, la inflamación y la aterosclerosis en pacientes en hemodiálisis (HD). Método: Estudio descriptivo transversal de la sección y no controlados. Se seleccionaron 30 pacientes consecutivos más de tres meses en hemodiálisis, durante el período abril 2005-abril 2006. A través de la recopilación de datos con información relevante como la edad, altura, peso seco, tiempo en HD, la presencia de la diabetes y otros. Se aplicó en su versión modificada valoración subjetiva global (ASGm) y analizaron los datos de la arteria carótida Doppler, la proteína C-reactiva, fibriogênio, la homocisteína, colesterol HDL, LDL, triglicéridos, albúmina, índice de masa corporal (IMC) y la medida de proteína equivalente de aparición de nitrógeno total (ANP). El análisis estadístico de las variables se realizó mediante la aplicación de pruebas paramétricas y no paramétricas y se consideraron estadísticamente significativas al 5% (p <0,05). Resultados: Los resultados mostraron un 80% de la malnutrición por ASGm. La prevalencia de diabetes mellitus fue de 33,3%, 86,7% hipertensión y el 40% de la enfermedad cardíaca previa. El IMC promedio fue de 24,6 + - 4,8 (23,9) kg / m², albúmina 4,18 + - 0,38 (4,2) g / dl, NAP + .93 a 0.29 (0 9) g / kg / día, la homocisteína 18.1 + - 9.9 (17) mmol / l, fibriogênio 263,86 + - 90,3 (229) mg / dl, LDL + 81,01 a 27,5 (84) mg / dl, HDL 41 + - 10,68 (41,7) mg / dl y estos resultados no mostraron diferencias significativas entre los grupos de desnutridos y bien nutridos. La mediana de PCR fue 0,545 (0,037-3,75) mg / dl con una diferencia significativa entre los grupos...

Patterns of saphenous venous reflux in women presenting with lower extremity telangiectasias.

BACKGROUND: Telangiectasias have been treated with sclerotherapy without concomitant assessment or treatment of saphenous veins. OBJECTIVE: To clarify if ultrasound (US) mapping of saphenous veins is justifiable, this investigation determined prevalence of specific patterns of saphenous vein reflux in women with telangiectasias. METHODS: US mapping of the great and small saphenous veins (GSV, SSV) was performed in 1,740 extremities of 910 consecutive patients, mostly women (86%). A subgroup of 269 limbs of women with telangiectasias (CEAP C1 class) was included in this study. Patterns of GSV and SSV reflux were classified as perijunctional, proximal, distal, segmental, multisegmental, and diffuse. RESULTS: Reflux was detected in 125 extremities (46%): 5% had reflux in both the GSV and the SSV, 39% had GSV reflux, and 2% had SSV reflux. The most common pattern of GSV reflux was segmental (73%, 87/119). Prevalence of reflux was significantly greater in GSV versus SSV (p < .001). GSV segmental plus distal reflux (40%, 108/269) was significantly more prevalent than saphenofemoral junction or near junction reflux (4%, 11/269; p < .001). CONCLUSIONS: US mapping of the GSV in women with telangiectasias is justifiable, even in asymptomatic extremities. Further research will determine if segmental reflux should be treated to avoid evolution to severe valvular insufficiency.

Espessamento médio-intimal na origem da artéria subclávia direita como marcador precoce de risco cardiovascular / Intima-media thickness in the origin of right subclavian artery as an early marker of cardiovascular risk

OBJETIVO: O espessamento médio-intimal (EMI) na artéria carótida comum é considerado fator de risco cardiovascular e marcador de doença arterial coronariana precoce. O objetivo deste trabalho foi investigar a existência de correlação entre o EMI nas artérias carótidas e na origem da artéria subclávia direita, e avaliar o EMI na artéria subclávia como um marcador mais precoce para avaliação de risco cardiovascular. MÉTODOS: Cento e seis pacientes consecutivos, 52 homens e 54 mulheres, com média de idade de 51 anos, foram submetidos à avaliação das artérias carótidas e subclávia direita pela ultra-sonografia vascular com Doppler colorido. Para avaliar a associação entre EMI das artérias carótidas e subclávia direita calcularam-se o coeficiente de correlação de Pearson e o intervalo de 95 por cento de confiança para esse coeficiente. A qualidade da medida do EMI da artéria subclávia direita para diagnóstico de espessamento precoce, considerando-se o espessamento da carótida como padrão de referência (> 0,8 mm), foi descrita por valores de sensibilidade, especificidade, valor preditivo positivo, valor preditivo negativo e acurácia. Pontos de corte para o EMI da artéria subclávia foram sugeridos pela Curva ROC. Valores de p < 0,05 foram considerados estatisticamente significantes. RESULTADOS: Na associação entre 41 artérias carótidas sem EMI, 30 (73 por cento) artérias subclávias direitas apresentavam EMI > 0,8 mm. O valor médio de EMI obtido na artéria carótida foi de 0,87 mm (DP = 0,23) e na artéria subclávia direita foi de 1,17 mm (DP = 0,46), com coeficiente de correlação de 0,31 (95 por cento IC: 0,12 ; 0,47). A avaliação pela curva ROC demonstrou um valor de corte de 0,7 mm para EMI da artéria subclávia direita, tendo como padrão de referência o valor de corte de EMI da artéria carótida de 0,8 mm (sensibilidade 91 por cento, especificidade 27 por cento, VPP 66 por cento, VPN 65 por cento e acurácia 66 por cento). CONCLUSÃO: Existe boa correlação entre o EMI...

OBJECTIVE: Common carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) is considered a factor of cardiovascular risk and an early marker of coronary artery disease. This study aimed to investigate the existence of a correlation between IMT in the carotid arteries and at the origin of the right subclavian artery, as well as to evaluate IMT in the subclavian artery as an earlier marker of cardiovascular risk. METHODS: One hundred and six consecutive patients, 52 males and 54 females, average age 51 years, underwent color Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate carotid and right subclavian arteries. The relationship between carotid IMT and right subclavian IMT was assessed using the Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis and a 95 percent confidence interval. Reliability of right subclavian artery IMT measurement for the diagnosis of early thickening (considering a > 0.8 mm carotid thickness as reference) was described as to sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy. Cut-off values for the right subclavian IMT were indicated by the ROC curve, and p values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Out of the 41 patients whose carotid arteries were IMT-free, 30 (73 percent) had right subclavian artery IMT values > 0.8 mm. The mean IMT value for the carotid artery was 0.87 mm (SD = 0.23) and for the subclavian artery, 1.17 mm (SD = 0.46), with a 0.31 correlation coefficient (95 percent CI: 0.12; 0.47). The ROC curve analysis indicated a cut-off value of 0.7 mm for the right subclavian artery IMT, using as reference a 0.8 mm cut-off value for the carotid artery (91 percent sensitivity, 27 percent specificity, 66 percent PPV, 65 percent NPV, and 66 percent accuracy). CONCLUSION: Our study showed that carotid artery IMT correlates well with right subclavian artery IMT. With a 0.7 mm cut-off value, it is possible to detect IMT in the right subclavian artery earlier than in the carotid arteries. The IMT at the...

Avaliação da perfusão renal pelo Power Doppler em pacientes transplantados renais / Assessment of renal perfusion by power Doppler in renal transplanted patients

Objetivos: O objetivo deste estudo é testar a aplicabilidade do estudo ultra-sonográfico com Power Doppler na identificação das alterações da perfusão dos rins transplantados e sua correlação com a reserva funcional renal e microalbuminúria antes e após a infusão de solução de aminoácidos intravenosos. Métodos: Vinte e três pacientes transplantados renais foram avaliados pelo Power Doppler antes (fase basal), após 120 minutos (fase 1) e após 240 minutos (fase 2) da infusão intravenosa de aminoácidos. Concomitantemente, foram realizadas, nas três fases, dosagem de creatinina, avaliação do índice de filtração glomerular, da reserva funcional renal e de microalbuminúria. Resultados: De acordo com os padrões de perfusão na fase basal pelo Power Doppler, descritos por Hoyer et al. em 1999, os pacientes foram divididos em três grupos: 12 pacientes com escore I, seis com escore II e cinco com escore III de perfusão renal...

Intima-media thickness in the origin of right subclavian artery as an early marker of cardiovascular risk.

OBJECTIVE: Common carotid artery intima-media thickness (IMT) is considered a factor of cardiovascular risk and an early marker of coronary artery disease. This study aimed to investigate the existence of a correlation between IMT in the carotid arteries and at the origin of the right subclavian artery, as well as to evaluate IMT in the subclavian artery as an earlier marker of cardiovascular risk. METHODS: One hundred and six consecutive patients, 52 males and 54 females, average age 51 years, underwent color Doppler ultrasonography to evaluate carotid and right subclavian arteries. The relationship between carotid IMT and right subclavian IMT was assessed using the Pearson's correlation coefficient analysis and a 95% confidence interval. Reliability of right subclavian artery IMT measurement for the diagnosis of early thickening (considering a > 0.8 mm carotid thickness as reference) was described as to sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and accuracy. Cut-off values for the right subclavian IMT were indicated by the ROC curve, and p values < or = 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Out of the 41 patients whose carotid arteries were IMT-free, 30 (73%) had right subclavian artery IMT values > 0.8 mm. The mean IMT value for the carotid artery was 0.87 mm (SD = 0.23) and for the subclavian artery, 1.17 mm (SD = 0.46), with a 0.31 correlation coefficient (95% CI: 0.12; 0.47). The ROC curve analysis indicated a cut-off value of 0.7 mm for the right subclavian artery IMT, using as reference a 0.8 mm cut-off value for the carotid artery (91% sensitivity, 27% specificity, 66% PPV, 65% NPV, and 66% accuracy). CONCLUSION: Our study showed that carotid artery IMT correlates well with right subclavian artery IMT. With a 0.7 mm cut-off value, it is possible to detect IMT in the right subclavian artery earlier than in the carotid arteries. The IMT at the origin of the right subclavian artery can be considered an earlier marker for the assessment of cardiovascular risk.

Estenose na artéria renal: a necessidade de validação dos critérios diagnósticos no laboratório vascular / Renal artery stenosis: need for validation of diagnostic criteria in the vascular laboratory

OBJETIVO: Validar os critérios diagnósticos da ultra-sonografia vascular com Doppler colorido na identificação das estenoses hemodinamicamente significativas nas artérias renais. MÉTODOS: Foram estudadas, prospectivamente, pela ultra-sonografia vascular com Doppler colorido, 137 artérias renais de 69 pacientes adultos com suspeita de hipertensão arterial renovascular. Os resultados da avaliação pela ultra-sonografia vascular com Doppler colorido foram comparados, de maneira duplo-cega, à arteriografia, sendo definidos os valores de corte (curva ROC) da velocidade sistólica, velocidade diastólica e índice renal-aorta que melhor identificam as estenoses hemodinamicamente significativas, com angulação do Doppler de 60°. RESULTADOS: O pico de velocidade sistólica superior a 250 cm/s foi o parâmetro de melhor acurácia (87,2 por cento) na identificação das estenoses hemodinamicamente significativas, seguido do índice renal-aorta superior a 3,2 (85,6 por cento) e do pico de velocidade diastólica superior a 48 cm/s (70,4 por cento). CONCLUSÕES: Os parâmetros recomendados pela literatura devem ser validados em cada laboratório vascular. Para o equipamento de ultra-som utilizado e para a população incluída neste estudo, os critérios diagnósticos para estenoses hemodinamicamente significativas nas artérias renais devem ser reajustados para velocidade sistólica > 250 cm/s e índice renal-aorta > 3,2, com angulação do Doppler de 60°.

OBJECTIVE: To validate the diagnostic criteria of color Doppler ultrasound in the identification of hemodynamically significant stenoses in renal arteries. METHODS: The color Doppler ultrasound was used to prospectively study 137 renal arteries of 69 adult patients suspected of having renovascular arterial hypertension. The results of the color Doppler ultrasound assessment were double-blindly compared to the arteriography. Cut-off values (ROC curve) were defined for systolic velocity, diastolic velocity and renal-aortic ratio, which better identify hemodynamically significant stenoses, at a Doppler angle of 60°. RESULTS: Peak systolic velocity higher than 250 cm/s was the parameter for greater accuracy (87.2 percent) in the identification of hemodynamically significant stenoses, followed by the renal-aortic ratio greater than 3.2 (85.6 percent) and peak diastolic velocity higher than 48 cm/s (70.4 percent). CONCLUSIONS: Parameters recommended in the literature must be validated in every vascular laboratory. For the ultrasound device and population included in this study, the diagnostic criteria for hemodynamically significant stenoses of renal arteries must be readjusted to systolic velocity > 250 cm/s and renal-aortic ratio > 3.2, at a Doppler angle of 60°.

Patterns of saphenous reflux in women with primary varicose veins.

OBJECTIVE: Varicose veins have been linked to great saphenous vein (GSV) reflux and in particular, with reflux at the saphenofemoral junction (SFJ). Early stages of disease, however, may be associated with limited, localized reflux in segments of the GSV and/or small saphenous vein (SSV). Ultrasound mapping of saphenous veins was performed to determine patterns of GSV and SSV reflux in women with simple, primary varicose veins. METHODS: Ultrasound mapping was performed prospectively in 590 extremities of 326 women with varicose veins (CEAP C 2 class) but without edema, skin changes, or ulcers (C 3 to C 6 ). Average age was 42 +/- 13 (SD) years (range, 8 to 87). Patterns of GSV and SSV reflux, obtained in the upright position, were classified as I: perijunctional, originating from the SFJ or saphenopopliteal junction (SPJ) tributaries into the GSV or SSV; II: proximal, from the SFJ or SPJ to a tributary or perforating vein above the level of the malleoli; III: distal, from a tributary or perforating vein to the paramalleolar GSV or SSV; IV: segmental, from a tributary or perforating vein to another tributary or perforating vein above the malleoli; V; multisegmental, if two or more distinct refluxing segments were detected; and VI: diffused, involving the entire GSV or SSV from the SFJ or SPJ to the malleoli. RESULTS: Reflux was detected in 472 extremities (80%): 100 (17%) had reflux in both the GSV and SSV, 353 (60%) had GSV reflux only, and 19 (3%) had SSV reflux only, for a total prevalence of 77% at the GSV and 20% at the SSV. The most common pattern of GSV reflux was segmental (types IV and V) in 342 (58%) of 590; either one segment in 213 (36%) or more than one segment with competent SFJ in 99 (17%), or incompetent SFJ in 30 (5%), followed by distal GSV reflux (type III) in 65 (11%), proximal GSV reflux (type II) in 32 (5%), diffused throughout the entire GSV (type VI) in 10 (2%), and perijunctional (type I) in 4 (<1%). GSV refluxing segments were noted in the SFJ in 72 (12%) and in the thigh in 220 (37%), and leg (or both) in 345 (58%). CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence of reflux justifies ultrasound mapping of the saphenous veins in women with primary varicose veins. Correction of SFJ reflux, however, may be needed in

Vascular color Doppler ultrasound for assessing renovascular hypertension: accuracy of the direct technique for assessing the renal arteries.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the accuracy of vascular color Doppler ultrasound as compared with digital subtraction arteriography for identifying hemodynamically significant renal artery stenoses. METHODS: One hundred and thirty-seven renal arteries from 69 adult patients suspected of having renovascular arterial hypertension were prospectively studied with ultrasound. The results obtained were compared in a double-blind manner with those obtained on digital subtraction arteriography, and the following parameters were calculated according to previously defined criteria: sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and overall accuracy. RESULTS: The inconclusive results (7 arteries) were excluded. The comparison of the 2 methods in regard to the 130 remaining arteries showed concordant results for 116 (89.2%) arteries and discordant results for 14 (10.8%) arteries. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and overall accuracy of vascular color Doppler ultrasound were, respectively, 95.33%, 88.14%, 89.86%, 94.55%, and 91.94%. CONCLUSION: A good correlation between the 2 examinations was observed in the evaluation of the hemodynamically significant renal artery stenoses, making vascular color Doppler ultrasound a noninvasive method useful for selecting patients with suspected renovascular hypertension.