In last years, 3D ultrasound has become important in clinical practice for a molteplicity of specialities, for example vascular surgery and phlebology. This technology can be used for diagnosis, therapy and also for training.
This technology needs a specific device that send data to a PC software, then it shows 3D images.
We can use it for diagnosis and follow up in patients with Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), mapping of Great Saphenous Vein and Small Saphenous Vein before termoablation and/or sclerotherapy. It allows also the realization of models with 3D
printing.
We have quantified the gravity of venous thrombosis with extreme precision (with the evaluation of dimensions, in cubic millimeters, of the thrombus, vascular area occluded
from the thrombus and free vascular area) and evaluated recurrences with certainty.
For vascular mapping, we have used this program for surgical planning and for follow – up of patients treated with sclerotherapy with foam.
Finally, we have reproduced, with 3Dprinting, models of pathological veins. For our experience, we can confirm that in venous field, 3D ultrasound can evaluate with better precision SVT, DVT and varicose pathology. It can be use for planning saphenous treatment and for venous malformations, where it can show afferent and efferent vessels, optimizing treatment outcomes.
Finally, the use of 3D printing let to realise more precise and realistic models, that can be use for surgical planning and training.
