Only 20-30% of patients with clinically suspected DVT are properly diagnosed.
Diagnosing DVT
It is estimated that DVT is confirmed in only 20-30% of patients with clinically suspected DVT, but all patients with DVT are at risk for PE or PTS and their associated complications.7,8 Moreover, approximately 70% of patients with suspected DVT present with additional conditions (e.g., Achilles tendonitis, arterial insufficiency, arthritis, hematoma and stress fractures), further delaying a timely and accurate diagnosis.1
1. Schreiber, D. Deep venous thrombosis and thrombophlebitis. www.emedicine.com/emerg/topic122.htm
7.Prandoni P, et al. The long-term clinical course of acute deep venous thrombosis. Annals of Internal Medicine 1996; 125:1-7
8. Bernardi E, Prandoni P. The post-thrombotic syndrome: Risk factors and impact on the course of thrombolic disease. Journal of Thrombosis and Haemostasis 2005; 3:2671-76.
Referring physicians who are aware of the risk factors and common symptoms of DVT can have a significant impact on the outcomes of people with DVT by identifying at-risk patients and directing them to vascular specialists for timely diagnosis and treatment at an early stage.