The Ottawa DVT PoCUS Handbook is a peer-reviewed, practical guide designed to support emergency clinicians in the bedside diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis using point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS). Developed by emergency medicine physicians at The Ottawa Hospital, this resource is tailored for learners and practitioners at all levels — including medical students, residents, and staff physicians — who want to build confidence and competence in DVT scanning.
This first edition introduces a clear, evidence-based approach to the 2-zone compression ultrasound protocol, with detailed scanning instructions, high-yield clinical pearls, and real-world case integration. Highlights include a review of relevant venous anatomy, clarification of commonly confused PoCUS protocols (2-point vs 3-point vs zone-based), guidance on avoiding common scanning pitfalls, and a step-by-step image acquisition checklist to support skill development.
Whether you’re just beginning your ultrasound journey or looking to sharpen your technique, the Ottawa DVT PoCUS Handbook is an essential companion for point-of-care vascular assessment in the Emergency Department and beyond.