Therapeutic anticoagulation trades increased risk of bleeding for reduced risk of additional thromboembolism.
Currently, there is no consensus about the optimal approach to treating isolated calf deep vein thromboses (DVTs). While the risk of pulmonary embolism (PE) or clot extension is low, it is not clear whether the risks from anticoagulation are worth the benefits.
Researchers assessed risks of anticoagulation in a retrospective, single-center, observational study of 384 patients with duplex ultrasonography showing isolated calf DVTs. Patients were excluded if they had chronic DVT, prior DVT or PE, or PE diagnosed at the time of DVT diagnosis. Therapeutic anticoagulation was prescribed for 243 patients and was not prescribed for 141 (controls). Anticoagulation consisted of warfarin (75%) or heparin (24%), with almost no use of newer anticoagulan…
Reviewing Author
DisclosuresRoyaltiesUpToDate
Grant/Research SupportEunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; MINDSOURCE
Editorial BoardsThe Quarterly Update: Reviews of Current Child Abuse Medical Research; Child Abuse & Neglect: The International Journal
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesThe Helfer Society (Executive Committee Member)
DisclosuresRoyaltiesUpToDate
Grant/Research SupportEunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; MINDSOURCE
Editorial BoardsThe Quarterly Update: Reviews of Current Child Abuse Medical Research; Child Abuse & Neglect: The International Journal
Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesThe Helfer Society (Executive Committee Member)