[Home treatment for deep vein thrombosis: pros and cons]

There is sound evidence, that low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) administered subcutaneously is at least as effective and safe as an i.v. infusion of unfractionated heparin. Thus, with LMWH out-patient treatment of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) becomes feasible. According to the current guidelines, an objective diagnosis of DVT is required before the anticoagulation with heparin is initiated. Close monitoring is also required during the subsequent initiation of treatment with vitamin K antagonist. Contraindications and comorbid conditions need to be identified and may necessitate hospital treatment. A checklist may assist in the decision for or against out-patient treatment, but an individual assessment for the individual patient is always a requisite.