The assessment of the post-thrombotic limb by foot volumetry and pedal venous pressure

Abstract

Various tests, such as foot volumetry, static and ambulatory venous pressure measurements, Doppler flow recordings and calf plethysmography, have recently been developed to aid and to attempt to quantify venous insufficiency. This paper describes a simple device for measuring foot volume changes during the prescribed exercise. The foot is placed in a water-bath and the change in foot volume is recorded by a strain-gauge pressure transducer. The transducer responds to the head of water change. which, in turn, is directly proportional to the volume change. Also described is a simple device for the measurement of pedal venous pressure using a standard, commercially available transducer. The methodology of the tests is discussed, together with sample results.