Objective To discuss the diagnostic value of multi-slice computed tomography(MSCT) as an imaging technique used for upper vein angiography.

Methods A total of 56 cases were referred for upper limb vein check by MSCT from June 2010 to March 2012. The veins were scanned by using the LightSpeed 16 computed tomography(CT) scanner and reconstructed by using volume rendering, maximum intensity projection, multi-planner formation, and curve planner reformation. Three different layers were selected to measure the CT value of A, B, and C(i.e., the axial image of the cephalic and brachial veins between condyles of the humerus at 5 and 8 cm and the axial image of the subclavian vein). Statistical analysis was conducted by using SPSS 17.0, whereas one-way ANOVA F test was used to analyze the measured CT value(P < 0.05 was considered statistically significant).

Results Out of 56 patients, 14 cases of right upper limb and 21 cases of left upper limb were detected to have deep vein thrombosis. That is, 62.5%(35/56) of the cases were detected by MSCT as compared with 58.9%(33/56) of the cases detected by color Doppler. The CT value of the axial image of the brachial and cephalic veins between condyles of the humerus approximately 5 and 8 cm near the heart was P>0.05, whereas that of the axial image of the subclavian vein was P>0.05(F=0.001). In different layers of vein filled with contrast medium, the CT values were uniform and the differences of the values exhibited no statistical significance between different layers. The contrast medium concentration in the distal part of the upper limb vein was higher than that near the heart, and the differences of the CT values exhibited statistical significance between different layers(F=1441.52, P < 0.05).

Conclusions In conclusion, the MSCT is a superior technology for upper limb vein imaging because it is able to show the upper limb in an extensive range, display the collateral circulation clearly, identify the causes of hemadostenosis, and predict the occurrence of thrombogenesis. Simultaneously, this technology significantly reduces the dosage of iodine contrast agent, lowers the economic burden of patients, improves the rate of correct diagnosis for lesions, and provides reliable bases for selecting correct methods of treatment in clinics.