PPG is a phlebological test that diagnoses venous insufficiency. This test is used to assess the severity of chronic venous insufficiency and monitor its treatment. What are the indications for this test? How does the PPG test work?
Thetest using thePPGapparatus (photoplethysmograph) allows to diagnose the pre-varicose stage and the stage of chronic venous insufficiency. You can also predict treatment outcomes from the PPG test. You do not need to prepare yourself for the test, but it is very important to rest for several minutes before it starts.
PPG test process
The test is painless and only takes a few minutes. They are performed in a sitting position. The examiner places the camera probe (sensor) on the lower leg.
In justified cases, the PPG test is supplemented with a band test.
The person performing the test will ask you to bend the foot several times. After performing a series of dorsiflexions of the foot, you must remain still for a while. The PPG device then measures the time of venous return, i.e. the filling of the venous vessels, and the strength of the muscle pump, which allows to assess the severity of venous insufficiency.