Management of deep vein thrombosis.

BACKGROUND: Deep vein thrombosis is a common condition which may occur spontaneously or after surgery. Recently, there has been an increased understanding of its causes and risk factors. OBJECTIVE: To outline the aims of treatment which are initially to prevent pulmonary embolism and further recurrence of the thrombosis. The initial treatment involves administration of unfractionated heparin or low molecular weight heparin. DISCUSSION: The development of the low molecular weight heparin makes treatment at home a possibility. Warfarin is also started within 24-hours and its dose adjusted to an international normalised ratio of 2-3. In most patients, the oral anticoagulant therapy should continue for 3-6 months, or longer in those with recurrent venous thromboembolism and those with acquired or hereditary prothrombotic states.