PPG Reflux

Question 1

A PPG reflux test is done to evaluate what?

Answer 1

• Valvular incompetence in the LE

- Differentiate between Deep or Superficial incompetence

Question 2

What does PPG stand for?

Answer 2

Photoplethysmography

Question 3

What does PPG monitor?

Answer 3

Amount of blood content in the skin

Question 4

Where do you place the PPG probe during an exam?

Answer 4

The Gaitor area

Question 5

Describe a PPG exam

Answer 5

• PPG probe placed on gaitor area with the leg dangling over chair or table
• Obtain Flat baseline
• Manual compression 5 times or 5x plantar flexions
• Monitor time needed for venous refill

Question 6

What qualifies as a normal PPG exam?

Answer 6

> 20 seconds refill

Question 7

If it takes < 20 seconds to refill, this abnormal result indicates what?

Answer 7

Chronic Venous Insufficiency (CVI)

Question 8

If an abnormal result is observed, what should you do next?

Answer 8

Apply thigh tourniquet, inflate to 50 mmHg, repeat exam

Question 9

If after placing the thigh tourniquet, the result is still abnormal, what does that indicate?

Answer 9

Valvular incompetence in GSV

Question 10

If after placing the thigh tourniquet, the result is normal, what should you do?

Answer 10

Place another tourniquet over the calf and repeat the exam

Question 11

If a normal result is observed after placing the calf tourniquet, what does that indicate?

Answer 11

SSV valvular incompetence

Question 12

If an abnormal result is observed after placing the calf tourniquet, what does that indicate?

Answer 12

Deep and Superficial insufficiency