The value of adding thermographic leg scanning to impedance plethysmography in the detection of deep vein thrombosis

Abstract The clinical value of adding thermographic leg scanning to impedance plethysmography was evaluated and compared in 52 patients with clinically suspected deep venous thrombosis. Both tests were performed on the day of referal and phlebograpphy within 72 hours . The sensitivity of thermography was 83%, the specifity 41% and the accuracy 61%. In comparison IPG had a sensitivity of 83%, a specificity of 96% and an accuracy of 90% The combination of thermography and IPG showed a sensitivity of 92%, a specificity of 41% and an accuracy of 65%. It is concluded that the addition of thermography to IPG is of no clinical value.