Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 8, 2026
10:26
A Multicenter MRI Protocol for the Evaluation and Quantification of Deep Vein Thrombosis
Published on: June 2, 2015
17.8K
Deep venous free-floating thrombus: A review and meta-analysis.
Mario Maufus1, Lucia Mazzolai1, Beatrice Terriat2
1Angiology Division, Heart and Vessel Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.
Vascular Diseases (Paris, France)
|December 20, 2025
Summary
Free-floating thrombus (FFT) in deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is linked to a higher risk of pulmonary embolism (PE). However, FFT does not appear to increase the risk of secondary symptomatic PE, though more research is needed.
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Cardiology
- Thrombosis Research
Background:
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) poses a significant risk of pulmonary embolism (PE).
- Risk stratification for PE often considers DVT location (proximal vs. distal).
- The clinical significance of free-floating thrombus (FFT) in DVT remains controversial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the clinical significance of FFT.
- To determine if FFT presence impacts the risk of pulmonary embolism.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature review and meta-analysis.
- Searched MEDLINE database using keywords "free-floating thrombus" and "pulmonary embolism."
- Analyzed 35 relevant publications.
Main Results:
- FFT presence was associated with a significantly higher risk of primary PE (OR 3.3, P<0.02).
- FFT was also linked to a higher risk of secondary PE (OR 2.2, P<0.004).
- No statistically significant increase in secondary symptomatic PE incidence was observed.
Conclusions:
- The free-floating characteristic of DVT increases the risk of initial PE and secondary PE.
- FFT may not be associated with an increased risk of secondary symptomatic PE.
- The meta-analysis requires more power to definitively confirm conclusions regarding secondary symptomatic PE.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Venous Thrombosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies
270
The key difference between Superficial Vein Thrombosis (SVT) and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) lies in their location and severity.Clinical ManifestationsSVT typically presents with localized pain, tenderness, and redness along the course of a superficial vein, often accompanied by a palpable, cord-like structure under the skin. This condition is usually less dangerous than DVT but can be uncomfortable and may lead to complications such as cellulitis or, rarely, a clot extension into the deep...
270
01:29Venous Thrombosis III: Interprofessional Care
262
Venous thrombosis requires effective prevention and treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes and reduce potential complications.Prevention StrategiesHealthcare providers must prioritize preventing venous thromboembolism (VTE) for all adult patients upon admission. Interventions depend on bleeding and thrombosis risk, medical history, current medications, diagnoses, planned procedures, and patient preferences. Patients on bed rest should change positions every two hours and, if not...
262
01:30Venous Thrombosis I: Introduction
294
Venous thrombosis, the most common disorder of the veins, involves the formation of a thrombus or blood clot associated with vein inflammation. It can be classified as either superficial vein thrombosis or deep vein thrombosis.Superficial Vein Thrombosis: This involves the formation of a thrombus in a superficial vein, usually the greater or lesser saphenous vein. Though less severe than deep vein thrombosis (DVT), SVT can lead to complications if untreated.Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): This...
294
01:30Venous Thrombosis IV: Nursing Management
182
Nursing management begins with a thorough assessment of the patient's health history. Key factors include trauma to veins, peripherally inserted central catheters, varicose veins, recent pregnancy or childbirth, surgery, bacteremia, prolonged bed rest, atrial fibrillation, COPD, heart failure, cancer, coagulation disorders, myocardial infarction, spinal cord injury, stroke, prolonged travel, recent bone fractures, and dehydration. Review medication intake, particularly oral contraceptives,...
182
01:29Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
277
Diagnosing Pulmonary EmbolismDiagnosing pulmonary embolism (PE) involves clinical assessment and advanced imaging tests. The preferred diagnostic tool is the spiral (helical) CT scan or CT angiography (CTA), which uses intravenous contrast media to visualize the pulmonary vasculature and identify emboli.A ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scan is an alternative for patients unable to receive contrast media. This scan includes both perfusion and ventilation scanning. Perfusion scanning involves...
277
01:26Varicose Veins II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
164
Varicose veins, or varicosities, develop when the valves in the veins, which control blood flow, weaken or damage. It causes blood to pool and the veins to enlarge. Understanding the clinical manifestations, diagnostic approaches, and management options for varicose veins is crucial for effective treatment and relief.Clinical manifestationsClinical manifestations of varicose veins include a heavy, achy feeling or pain after prolonged standing or sitting. This discomfort can often be relieved by...
164