Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Question 1

What is superficial thrombophlebitis?

Answer 1

The inflammation from a thrombosis of a superficial vein

Question 2

Which vein is usually involved in superficial thrombophlebitis?

Answer 2

The long saphenous veing of the leg

Question 3

Is this inflammation due to infection?

Answer 3

No, inflammation due to thrombosis.

Question 4

What % of superficial thrombophlebitis will have an underlying DVT/

Answer 4

20%

Question 5

What % of superficial thrombophlebitis will progress to a DVT if untreated?

Answer 5

3-4%

Question 6

What makes it more likely that a patient with superficial thrombophlebitis will more likely progress to develop a DVT?

Answer 6

The clot is in a long vein. (Usually >5cm)

Question 7

What investigations must be done on someone with superficial thrombophlebitis affecting the proximal long saphenous veing?

Answer 7

USS to exclude concurrent DVT.

Consider ABPI if considering prescribing compression stockings.

Question 8

Answer 8

Question 9

According to SIGN, how should superficial thrombophlebitis affecting the proximal long saphenous vein be managed?

Answer 9

• All patients: Anti-embolism stockings.
• First line LMWH for up to 30 days or Fondaparinux for 45 days.
• Second line: 8-12 days of oral NSAIDs.

Question 10

How should superficial thrombophlebitis at or extending towards the sapheno-femoral junction of the saphenous vein be managed?

Answer 10

As proximal vein.

But for therapeutic anticoagulation for 6-12 weeeks.