Venous duplex sonography combines B-mode imaging with color and spectral Doppler to evaluate the venous system of the lower and upper extremities, abdomen, and pelvis. It is the gold standard non-invasive test for diagnosing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and assessing chronic venous insufficiency.
Sonographers perform compression testing — the most reliable DVT sign — along with Doppler augmentation, spontaneity assessment, and valve competency evaluation. Lower extremity studies cover the common femoral, femoral, popliteal, and calf veins. Upper extremity venous studies assess the subclavian, axillary, and brachial veins, often in patients with central venous catheters. Abdominal venous studies evaluate portal, hepatic, and mesenteric veins.
The RVT credential from ARDMS covers venous duplex sonography within vascular technology. Many hospital vascular labs and outpatient vascular practices employ dedicated venous sonographers. DVT diagnosis and chronic venous disease management represent high-volume clinical needs, making venous duplex expertise consistently in demand.