Deep Vein Thrombosis

Question 1

Define deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Answer 1

A blood clot in the deep vein of the leg.

Question 2

Explain the aetiology/risk factors of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Answer 2

Being immobile for long periods
The Pill (increases chance of blood clots)
Age
Trauma
Active cancer
Pregnancy
Clotting disorder
Smoking

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Answer 3

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a relatively common medical problem with a yearly incidence of approximately 1 in every 1000 adults. About two thirds of these cases are DVT and one third progress to a PE.

Question 4

Recognise the presenting symptoms of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Recognise the signs of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) on physical examination.

Answer 4

Pain in leg
Asymmetric oedema
Prominent superficial vein

Question 5

Identify appropriate investigations for deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and interpret the results.

Answer 5

Wells’ score - Risk of DVT or PE
Quantitative D-dimer level - Tells you how much FDP (fibrin degradation product), doesn’t work for pregnancy or cancer as these can affect clotting.
Proximal duplex ultrasound
Whole-leg ultrasound
INR and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT)
Urea and creatinine
LFTs
FBC

Question 6

Generate a management plan for deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Answer 6

Heparin

Adjunct:
Stockings

Question 7

Identify the possible complications of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and its management.

Answer 7

The clot could travel to the lungs and cause a PE.

Question 8

Summarise the prognosis for patients with deep vein thrombosis (DVT).

Answer 8

Patient should be fine as long as they start heparin. It depends on what caused the DVT (e.g. cancer).