BMJ  2003;326 (31 May), doi:10.1136/bmj.326.7400.0-a

Outpatient treatment for deep vein thrombosis of the leg is safe

Deep vein thrombosis can be treated on an outpatient basis, without any greater risk of complications. Initial treatment with low molecular weight heparins means that activated partial thromboplastin time need not be monitored. Major haemorrhage during initial treatment is less likely, and overall mortality at the end of follow up is reduced, Tovey and Wyatt report (p 1180). These drugs are cost effective, safe, and preferred by patients. Pain or swelling of a lower limb is a relatively common presenting complaint, and the differential diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis is wide. No single investigation is ideal, and often several tests can be performed, either sequentially or in combination.

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Diagnosis, investigation, and management of deep vein thrombosis

Clive Tovey and Suzanne Wyatt
BMJ 2003 326: 1180-1184. [Extract] [Full Text] [PDF]