The utility of superb microvascular imaging for the detection of deep vein thrombosis

Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) reduces motion artifacts significantly and allows visualization of low-velocity blood flow in vessels; thus, thrombi are clearly demonstrated compared to conventional B-mode and color Doppler imaging. Ultrasonographic images of the lower extremities of a 69-year-old woman with acute ischemic stroke complicated with deep vein thrombosis (DVT) are presented. Because SMI allows visualization of low-velocity blood flow, echo contrast between the thrombus and the surrounding flow makes it possible to clearly visualize the thrombus. SMI is a useful method to evaluate DVT, especially early after thrombus formation when it is difficult to delineate size and length because of echolucency.