Is an ultrasound study used to determine if there’s compression or blockage in the iliac veins. This test measures the rate of blood flow through the iliac canal and will determine which course of treatment, if any, is necessary.
There is a right and left iliac vein that come together and meet in the abdomen at the level of the fifth lumbar vertebra. They are responsible for draining blood from the pelvis and lower extremities. During this test, a vascular technologist will scan the abdominal/pelvic regions along with your lower extremities to get an accurate reading.
Iliac vein compression is the most probable cause of iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis (DVT). This occurs when the compression on the iliac vein is severe enough to slow down the rate of venous outflow. We use this ultrasound to determine where the source of the compression exists and the method of treatment to be used if positive.
