Lower Extremity Venography
Alternate Names : Phlebography, Venogram
Definition
Lower extremity venography is a test used to visualize the veins in the leg.
X-rays are a form of electromagnetic radiation like light, but of higher energy, so they can penetrate the body to form an image on film. Structures that are dense (such as bone) will appear white, air will be black, and other structures will be shades of gray.
Veins are not normally seen in an X-ray, so a contrast material is injected into the vein to make it visible. In this test, the contrast material is injected into the vein of the affected leg.
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Why is the Test Performed?
This test is used to identify and locate thrombi (blood clots) in the veins of the extremity that is affected.
Ultrasound is a newer procedure with fewer risks and side effects, and it is used more often than lower extremity venography.
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