Abstract

Background: Deep vein thrombosis or DVT is a blood clot that forms within a deep vein typically in the lower leg or thigh, although they can also occur in other parts of the body. This thrombus/clot prevents the flow of blood in that vein leading to swelling and pain. When a part of the clot breaks off from the main thrombus it is known as an embolus. The most feared complication of DVT is pulmonary embolism, which is potentially life-threatening, in which the embolus travels to the lungs. Pulmonary embolism is thought to be one of the most common causes of preventable deaths in hospitals in the U.S. Other complications include post thrombotic syndrome which can affect up to 50% of patients who develop DVT. DVT is estimated to occur at an incidence of 1 per 1000 adults annually with an increased risk in males versus females and is most common in adults over the age of 601. Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is the term given to include both deep vein thrombosis as well as pulmonary embolism. Aim: Provide an update on the proper management of DVT to reduce morbidity and mortality. Methods: A review of online publications and medical journals.