Trendelenburg test

The Trendelenburg test , named after the surgeon Friedrich Trendelenburg (1844–1924), not to be confused with the Trendelenburg sign , is now a historical clinical examination to prove insufficient venous valve function.

Physiologically, the blood flows from the superficial leg veins through the perforating veins into the deeper venous system.

Lying on the back, the leg is raised or stretched vertically upwards in order to empty the varicose veins . Proximal stroking or a compression bandage can accelerate the drainage of the veins. The great saphenous vein is compressed in the area of ​​the middle thigh and above the ankle by means of two congestive tubes and the leg is lowered.

Possible consequences are:

• the varicose veins do not fill at all or fill up slowly over a period of more than 30–35 seconds: the valves of the perforating veins are thus sufficient, and no blood flows retrograde from the deep leg veins into the superficial ones . The Trendelenburg test is negative.
• Trendelenburg I positive: Rapid vein filling with congestion still in place (<15 sec.) → Insufficient perforation.
• Trendelenburg II positive: retrograde filling after the congestion has decreased → valve insufficiency of the superficial veins (= trunk varicosis). To clarify the localization: tourniquet on the thigh and lower leg.

See also: Perthes test , Pratt test

This article is about a health issue. It is not used for self-diagnosis and does not replace a diagnosis by a doctor. Please note the information on health issues !