What imaging techniques does 'venous duplex' include?

Venous duplex imaging is a non-invasive ultrasound technique that includes both B-mode imaging and Doppler studies of the veins. B-mode imaging provides a real-time, two-dimensional visualization of the vein’s structure, allowing for the assessment of anatomy, presence of clot, and other abnormalities. The Doppler component evaluates blood flow within the veins, measuring the direction and velocity of the blood flow. This combination is especially useful in diagnosing conditions such as deep vein thrombosis, venous insufficiency, and other vascular disorders.

In contrast, the other options listed do not accurately represent venous duplex imaging. For example, X-ray and CT imaging, as well as CT angiography and PET scans, involve different principles and technologies that are not specific to the assessment of venous structures in the same way that venous duplex does. Only B-mode imaging would not encompass the complete scope of venous duplex techniques since it lacks the functional assessment provided by Doppler ultrasound, which is critical for evaluating blood flow.