Management of Deep Venous Thrombosis of the Lower Limbs

Abstract

Introduction: Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common condition involving a blood clot that obstructs blood flow through a vein. Objective: To compile evidence on the management of deep vein thrombosis, including anticoagulant treatment strategies and surgical interventions, in order to expand the knowledge of healthcare professionals and enable them to perform well in a hospital setting. Methods: This is a narrative review with a structured search methodology. The selection of bibliographies was carried out using search strategies that include inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The evidence supports anticoagulation as the standard treatment for DVT, with the use of clinical scales and invasive interventions reserved for selected cases. Discussion: The diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis is based on clinical methods such as the application of clinical scales, laboratory tests such as D-dimer, and imaging such as Doppler ultrasound. Anticoagulation is the first-line treatment, with a preference for direct oral anticoagulants with individualised duration and respective follow-up and monitoring. Conclusions: Timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment, whether pharmacological or surgical, reduce the likelihood of complications that could put the patient's life at risk.