DVT Flashcards
humans sign
refers to pain in the calf on forceful dorsiflexion of the foot.
first step in the diagnosis of a suspected DVT or PE
calculate the pre-test probability/ Modified Wells score/ likelihood that the patient does in fact have a blood clot.
in patients with a low pre-test probability, a negative ____ excludes DVT
negative D dimer.
Is ____ elevated or negative in patients with VTE
elevated in patients with VTE. Elevated in a variety of conditions, so it’s a non-specific marker.
____ is needed as an investigation in patients who are considered likely to have DVT (high pre-test probability) or with a positive D-Dimer
Venous Compression Ultrasound with Doppler flow.
limitations to CUS
include an operatoe-depednent accuracy and reduction of sensitivity and specificity in DVT or pelvic veins, small calf veins or in obese patients.
if an isolated distal DVT is detected:
anticoagulation should be offered if severe clinical symptoms are present or if the risk of proximal extension Is high.
risk factors for proximal extension of a distal DVT include
positive D dimer, calf DVT that is close to the proximal veins, absence of a reversible provoking risk factor, cancer, previous history or venous thromboembolism, lower extremity immobilization.
treatment for superficial thrombophlebitis
treatment typically consists of NSAIDs, heat, compression and ambulation. if no improvement, try anticoagulation.
physical exam findings of DVT
• Edema • Tenderness to palpation • Erythema/cyanosis • Warmth to palpation • Dilated superficial veins • Palpable thrombosed vein - hullmans sign
Ddx for DVT
- musculoskeletal trauma
- hematoma
- extrinsic venous obstruction
- post thrombotic syndrome
- lymphedema
- infection/cellutis
- popliteal cyst (rupture)
distal DVT
Clot in the deep veins below
the knee
when should you treat someone with an isolated distal DVT
- only treat with anti-coagulants should be offered if patient has severe symptoms if clot extension is high.
- only treat distal DVT if symptomatic, or if immobilized in cast, or has obvious risk factors for extension or are unreliable.