Duplex saphenous vein mapping: venous occlusion and dependent position facilitate imaging.

The purpose of this study was to develop an optimal technique for greater saphenous vein distention during preoperative duplex assessment. An Acuson 128 scanner with a 7.5-MHz sector probe was used to assess the effects of venous occlusion and dependent position on the diameter of the greater saphenous vein in 20 male volunteers.

Is color duplex surveillance of infrainguinal polytetrafluoroethylene grafts worthwhile?

Background: Unlike vein bypasses, the role of duplex surveillance of infrainguinal prosthetic bypass grafts is controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the adequacy of color duplex surveillance in identifying failing infrainguinal polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) bypass grafts and to assess its value in predicting continued bypass patency.

Method: The surveillance data of primarily patent PTFE bypass grafts were compared with those of revised/occluded PTFE grafts.