Focused Ultrasound of the Popliteal Fossa for Detection of Symptomatic Baker's Cysts in Patients With Suspected Deep Vein Thrombosis: A Pilot Diagnostic Accuracy Study

Condition(s) studied

Investigational drug(s) / intervention(s)

Index Test (Focused Ultrasound of the Popliteal Fossa): Eligible patients will undergo a focused ultrasound examination of the popliteal fossa performed by a trained research assistant or emergency physician. The examination will be conducted before the results of D-dimer testing and CCUS are available. Operators will assess the presence and characteristics of Baker's cysts, evaluate whether an identified cyst is likely to explain the patient's presenting symptoms, estimate the probability of concurrent DVT, and complete a structured interpretation survey. FUP findings will be recorded for research purposes only and will not influence patient management.

Reference test (Routine DVT Diagnostic Pathway): Following FUP, all participants will proceed through the routine diagnostic pathway for suspected DVT. Depending on clinical probability and D-dimer results, patients may undergo no further testing or radiologist-performed complete compression ultrasound of the lower extremity (CCUS) according to standard practice. Final diagnoses established through the routine diagnostic pathway will serve as the reference standard.

Study summary

Quality improvement study with prospective observational design. The study explores the feasibility of testing diagnostic accuracy of an emergency department-performed focused ultrasound scan of the popliteal fossa in detecting symptomatic Baker's cysts, and to evaluate the potential for such follow-ups to conserve radiological resources. Ultimately, this work aims to establish the feasibility and provide the foundational data necessary for a future definitive diagnostic accuracy study.

Eligibility

Primary outcome measure(s)

• Participant recruitment rate — Immediately after the procedure
  Number of eligible patients enrolled per study month and proportion of eligible patients successfully enrolled.

Trial sites (1)

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