Learning Cardiology

DEEP VEIN THROMBOSIS   (DVT)- Definitions Unprovoked deep vein thrombosis implies that no identifiable provoking environmental event for DVT is evident. Proximal DVT is one that is located in the popliteal, femoral, or iliac veins. Isolated distal DVT has no proximal component, is located below the knee, and is confined to the calf veins (peroneal, posterior, anterior tibial, and muscular veins). TREATMENT -  (1) MEDICAL Anticoagulation is the mainstay of therapy. Acute symptomatic proximal DVT - anticoagulation (Grade 1B), provided the risk of bleeding is not high. Asymptomatic proximal DVT - anticoagulation Symptomatic isolated distal DVT - anticoagulation For select patients with isolated distal DVT (eg, those at high risk of bleeding, negative D-dimer level, asymptomatic or minor symptoms, without risk factors for extension, and/or minor thrombosis of the muscular veins), surveillance with serial ultrasound over a two-week period rather than anticoagulat