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Early outcome after isolated calf vein thrombosis
M H Meissner1, M T Caps, R O Bergelin
1Department of Surgery, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, USA.
Journal of Vascular Surgery
|December 31, 1997
Summary
Isolated calf vein thrombosis (CVT) can lead to persistent leg symptoms and valvular incompetence in about a quarter of patients. This highlights the clinical relevance of CVT in evaluating deep venous thrombosis (DVT).
Area of Science:
- Vascular Medicine
- Thrombosis Research
- Clinical Outcomes
Background:
- The clinical significance of isolated calf vein thrombosis (CVT) is debated, particularly regarding post-thrombotic syndrome development.
- Understanding the natural history of CVT is crucial for patient management and risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the early natural history of isolated calf vein thrombosis (CVT).
- To assess the relationship between CVT and persistent lower extremity symptoms, thrombus propagation, recanalization, and valvular incompetence.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study followed 58 patients with isolated CVT over 116 months.
- Clinical evaluations and duplex ultrasonography were performed at regular intervals.
Main Results:
- Seventy percent of CVT cases presented with symptoms; 23% had persistent pain or edema at 1 year.
- Recanalization was rapid, with thrombus load reduced by 50% at 1 month and resolved by 1 year.
- Valvular incompetence developed in 24% of extremities by 1 year; pulmonary embolism occurred in 11% at presentation.
Conclusions:
- Isolated calf vein thrombosis (CVT) can result in persistent lower extremity symptoms and valvular incompetence in approximately 25% of patients.
- The potential for long-term sequelae necessitates careful consideration of CVT's clinical relevance in deep venous thrombosis (DVT) evaluation.