A snapshot of venous ultrasound examinations in Australia and New Zealand: Implications for diagnosis and management of chronic venous disease interventions

Abstract

Objective

Chronic venous disease is a common vascular condition, affecting up to 60% of the population worldwide. In Australia and New Zealand, chronic venous insufficiency ultrasound examinations are primarily performed by sonographers. This research aimed to explore how ultrasound examinations are being performed, providing insights into current practices and recommendations for quality improvement.

Method

A questionnaire was distributed to capture demographics, practices of ultrasound, examination techniques, the use of nomenclature and experience of the respondents.

Results

The analysis of 97 responses showed a heterogeneity in the clinical application of ultrasound. Most sonographers performed less than two scans per day within 30–45 minutes. Deep venous incompetence was routinely excluded by all respondents. The majority used standing, sitting and reverse Trendelenburg position except for a few using supine position. Manual augmentation was the preferred provocation manoeuvre. Anatomical variations at the junctional level were not adequately evaluated. Although Giacomini’s vein was assessed by 80%, 57% of those did not evaluate paradoxical reflux. Seventy-five per cent routinely assessed non-saphenous reflux; however, over 50% were unfamiliar with lymph node venous networks. A significant number of out-dated venous terms were still being used. A low participation rate in continuing professional development was identified, which might be attributable to limited education and training programs.

Conclusion

The study is a multi-faceted exploration that identified a need for standardized diagnostic and reporting guidelines. Our results could explain discrepancies in diagnostic findings and inconsistencies in the use of medical terminology, with implications for clinical decision making and assessment of surgical outcome.