[Functional venous explorations].

Abstract

The methods for exploring venous function globally are presented first. These methods include venous pressure and plethysmography for which the methods using a garrot are separated from those using air volumetry which give reliable physiological and reproducible results. The Nachev method, the thermometry, the thermography and isotope clearances are also reviewed since they have been important in the development of exploration of venous function. The methods giving morphological or segmentary data are then presented in historical order: phlebography (completed by tomodensitography and nuclear magnetic resonance), then ultrasonography with Doppler, echography and duplex and colour techniques. Finally promising methods for the future including oxygen partial pressures, laser-Doppler, capillaroscopy and venous endoscopy are discussed. For each method, there is a description of the technique, a presentation of the measured parameters and their reliability, the signification of the measurement and its clinical use. Finally, each method is discussed in the context of concrete clinical situations with a schema for management of diagnosis.