Thrombus in deep vein, usually lower limb.
Risk factors
- • Virchow triad: stasis, hypercoagulability, endothelial injury
Clinical features
- • Unilateral limb swelling, pain, warmth, tenderness along vein
Investigations
- • Wells DVT score
- • D-dimer if low-probability (Wells ≤1)
- • Compression USS (proximal DVT)
Management
- • Anticoagulation: DOAC (apixaban/rivaroxaban)
- • 3 months if provoked; extended if unprovoked/cancer
- • Compression stockings for symptom relief
- • Catheter-directed thrombolysis if iliofemoral + limb-threatening (<14 d)
Complications
- • PE
- • Post-thrombotic syndrome (30%)
- • Phlegmasia cerulea dolens
Prevention
- • VTE prophylaxis: LMWH/mechanical in high-risk hospitalised patients
Related in WardRound
Educational — verify locally.
