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Updated: Jul 2, 2025
Point-Of-Care Ultrasound Screening for Proximal Lower Extremity Deep Venous Thrombosis
Published on: February 10, 2023
Superficial Venous Thrombosis: A Comprehensive Review
Marco Mangiafico1, Luca Costanzo2
1Unit of Internal Medicine, Policlinico "G. Rodolico-San Marco" University Hospital, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy.
Abstract:
Superficial venous thrombosis (SVT), an inflammatory-thrombotic process of a superficial vein, is a relatively common event that may have several different underlying causes. This phenomenon has been generally considered benign, and its prevalence has been historically underestimated; the estimated incidence ranges from about 0.3 to 1.5 event per 1000 person-years, while the prevalence is approximately 3 to 11%, with different reports depending on the population studied. However, such pathology is not free of complications; indeed, it could extend to the deep circulation and embolize to pulmonary circulation. For this reason, an ultrasound examination is recommended to evaluate the extension of SVT and to exclude the involvement of deep circulation. Also, SVT may be costly, especially in the case of recurrence. Therefore, accurate management is necessary to prevent sequelae and costs related to the disease. This review aims to analyse the epidemiology of SVT, its complications, optimal medical treatment, and open questions with future perspectives.
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