[Isotope phlebography. Value and limitations. Reliability in recent deep venous thrombosis of the lower limbs (author's transl)].

Isotope phlebography is a reliable examination in the diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis. Too complicated and expensive to be suggested for the purpose of routine detection, it nevertheless is of definite interest in three circumstances: --Suspicion of pulmonary embolism, with visualisation of any possible reservoir of peripheral clot and proof of the embolism. --Postoperatively, for repeated follow up to evaluate permeability after surgical procedures. --Finally, dynamic information by calculation of transit time of the radioactive embolus. Combined with Doppler measurement of peripheral venous pressures, it reflects the emptying capacities of a limb affected by post-phlebitis syndrome and hence plays a role in the decision to stop oral anticoagulants.