[Incomplete thrombosis of the inferior vena cava, a cause of chronic recurrent lung embolism. Diagnostic possibilities and case report].

Detection of complete inferior vena cava thrombosis is relatively simple because of the clinical symptoms and the pathological results of cw Doppler sonography in the region of the common femoral vein. Drainage volume detectable by means of venous occlusion plethysmography is considerably reduced during the acute phase, but normalizes with increasing degree of collateralization. In case of incomplete inferior vena cava thrombosis clinical signs, cw. Doppler sonography and venous occlusion plethysmography are not very relevant. Therefore, imaging technique is additionally required. Basing on a case report, the article demonstrates that ultrasound-B-method and echocardiography, or preferable endoechocardiography, may contribute to a more reliable diagnosis. Cavography is still the gold standard if invasive therapy is planned.