In vascular ultrasound, augmentation refers to the sudden increase in blood flow velocity within a vessel due to distal compression. This maneuver is crucial for assessing venous patency and competence, particularly in diagnosing deep vein thrombosis (DVT). When a healthy vein is compressed distally to the transducer, a surge in flow should be observed as blood is forced proximally.
The absence or dampening of augmentation can indicate venous obstruction, while prolonged augmentation after release of compression may suggest venous insufficiency. Ultrasound technicians often use this technique to differentiate between complete and partial thrombus and to evaluate valve function, making it a vital diagnostic tool in vascular imaging.
