Interventional Therapy for Upper Extremity Deep Vein Thrombosis

Area of Science:

• Vascular Medicine
• Interventional Cardiology

Background:

• Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in the upper extremity (UEDVT) accounts for approximately 10% of all DVTs.
• The incidence of UEDVT is increasing, largely attributed to the growing use of peripherally inserted central catheters.
• UEDVT shares similar severe sequelae with lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (LEDVT), including postthrombotic syndrome and pulmonary embolism.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the evidence for current interventional treatment options for UEDVT.
• To outline a clinical approach for managing patients with acute UEDVT.
• To address the lack of randomized trials defining optimal UEDVT management.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on UEDVT treatment.
• Analysis of single-center studies and extrapolation from LEDVT research.
• Description of interventional treatment modalities and patient management strategies.

Main Results:

• Multiple interventional treatment options exist for UEDVT.
• These interventions may potentially reduce the incidence of UEDVT sequelae.
• Optimal management strategies are often based on limited evidence and LEDVT data.

Conclusions:

• There is a need for randomized trials to establish optimal UEDVT management.
• Current management relies on available evidence, smaller studies, and LEDVT research.
• Systemic anticoagulation combined with interventional options offers potential benefits for UEDVT patients.