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Semin Vasc Med 2001; 01(1): 039-042
DOI: 10.1055/s-2001-14540
Copyright © 2001 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA. Tel.: +1(212) 584-4662

Clinical and Laboratory Diagnosis of Deep Vein Thrombosis: New Cost-Effective Strategies

Henri Bounameaux1 , Arnaud Perrier2 , Philip S. Wells3
  • 1Division of Angiology and Hemostasis, Medical Clinic, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
  • 2Department of Internal Medicine, Medical Clinic, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
  • 3Division of Hematology, Ottawa Civic Hospital, Ottawa, Canada
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Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 2001 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) has been made easier, less invasive, and somewhat safer over the past 2 decades. This has been due mainly to the development of venous compression ultrasonography (US). The prevalence of the disease in patients clinically suspected of DVT has steadily decreased during the past 10 years, likely as a consequence of the accurate noninvasive test, ultrasound imaging. This has led to the development of diagnostic tools that aim at reducing the number of unnecessary US exams. These include clinical probability assessment and fibrin D-dimer. Several strategies combining these tools have been validated in large-outcome studies and compared in a formal cost-effectiveness analysis. The results indicate that they should now be implemented in daily practice, taking into account local facilities and expertise.

KEYWORD

Deep vein thrombosis - venous compression ultrasonography - D-dimer

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