Deep vein thrombosis questions from OME

Question 1

What is the definition of a proximal DVT?

Answer 1

A thrombus in the popliteal, superficial femoral, deep femoral, common femoral or external iliac vein

Question 2

What is Virchow’s Triad?

Answer 2

Blood stasis, procoagulent tendency, and endothelial injury.
- Each of these can lead to thrombosis.

Question 3

Give 4 transient risk factors for DVT

Answer 3

• Immobilisation
• Surgery
• Trauma
• Acute infectious or inflammatory illness

Question 4

Is treatment indicated for a below-knee DVT?

Answer 4

• It is not known whether a below-knee DVT confers increased risk of PE; it is certainly a common incidental finding in otherwise well individuals.
• If local symptoms are thought to be due to the DVT, offer treatment. If not, consider repeat scanning in one week to see if the clot has extended proximally.

Question 5

Which patients with DVT should undergo investigation for an underlying cause?

Answer 5

Those aged >55 years with unprovoked DVT, and those with recurrent unprovoked DVT or DVT at an unusual site.