Superficial Venous Thrombosis

Superficial venous thrombosis is a common disease that most commonly occurs in the lower extremities (especially in the great saphenous vein [vena saphena magna]) and often is connected with varicose veins.A more extensive superficial venous thrombosis may spread to the deep veins. Deep venous thrombosis has been described to be associated with about 20% and pulmonary embolism with about 4% of superficial venous thromboses that have been more than 5 cm in length .Ultrasonography is indicated if the clinical picture is unclear, the patient is pregnant, there are clinical signs suggesting deep venous thrombosis, or the superficial thrombosis is located proximal to the mid-thigh (and at discretion if it is located in the upper part of the calf near the popliteal area).D dimer is not helpful in the differentiation between superficial and deep venous thrombosis.A superficial thrombophlebitis of = 5 cm in length is according to current guidelines treated with a mid-treatment dose of LMWH or with a prophylactic dose of fondaparinux for 6 weeks. In addition, topically administered NSAIDs may be used if needed.