What does the duration of deep venous reflux indicate? Would anyone be able to explain it for me in slightly more common terms?
I was recently diagnosed with venous insufficiency of the deep veins at 27. My doctor said that I have a two second delay in my left leg and nearly one second delay in my right leg. My diagnosis was brought about because of swelling/aching throughout the day, accompanied by feelings of heaviness and restlessness. I understand what venous insufficiency is, but I'm having a bit of trouble placing the word "delay". Also, are there any studious or statistics regarding patients in their twenties?
Answers from doctors (4)
The duration of venous reflux is an indicator of the severity of the disease. When the vascular tech squeezes your leg, they are forcing blood up through the vein, then measuring to see if any of the blood falls back down the vein (which is called reflux). In a normal, healthy vein, no blood should fall backwards. One second of reflux is typically considered mild disease, with 2-3 seconds being moderate disease and 4+ considered severe. We also look at the size of the vein (how stretched out it is) as well as the presence of swelling or varicose veins and symptoms. One must take all of these elements into account when deciding whether or not to treat. I am not aware of any studies of patients in their twenties but can tell you I have seen and treated many patients in their teens and early twenties.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The most common cause of deep vein reflux (delay is just another word for reflux time) is a history of previous blood clots. I would recommend at least 20-30 mmHg thigh-length compression hose, especially if traveling, sitting/standing for prolonged periods, prolonged illness/surgery, etc. I would then repeat the ultrasound in a month or so, with you both standing and lying down. The hose will help with your symptoms. There are many reasons for reflux including blood clots, hereditary, pregnancy, hormone therapy, etc.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
In the duplex ultrasound examination for venous insufficiency, the patient is standing and the flow in the vein is evaluated with an ultrasound probe during and after squeezing the leg. If the flow in the vein is reversed (toward the foot instead of back to the heart) after squeezing the leg for a significant duration of time, we say there is reflux. I think "delay" refers to that reflux. If you have not had prior DVT, isolated deep reflux without superficial reflux is uncommon. I would suggest you are seen by an expert in venous medicine to further evaluate.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
The normal valves in the deep venous system should open and close within one second. Anything longer is considered reflux (blood going backwards). This is called venous insufficiency and can occur at any age. Many people have deep venous reflux which requires no treatment. One second delay is normal and 2 is minimally delayed. Symptomatic treatment with support hose, exercise, elevation and keeping trim should improve this.
Published on Jul 11, 2012
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