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Practical Approach to the Management and Treatment of Venous Disorders pp 143–155Cite as

Superficial Vein Thrombosis

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Abstract

Superficial vein thrombosis (SVT), also known as superficial thrombophlebitis, is historically thought of as a benign condition that can always be treated symptomatically with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and elastic compression. However, many studies have reported an association of SVT with venous thromboembolism (VTE), with rates of concomitant deep vein thrombosis (DVT) as high as 53% and pulmonary embolism (PE) as high as 33% with lung scanning. In addition, SVT recurrence and extension is often reported. Although well-designed, randomized, controlled trials are few in this patient population, data suggest that anticoagulation in general and low-molecular-weight heparins specifically are the most effective treatment for SVT for resolving symptoms, preventing SVT recurrence or extension, and preventing VTE. When the significant morbidity and mortality associated with VTE is considered, it is reasonable that anticoagulation be used in all patients with SVT.

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Acknowledgements

The authors would like to acknowledge the editorial assistance of Holly Capasso-Harris, Ph.D. in the preparation of this chapter.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, NorthShore University HealthSystem, Evanston, IL, USA

    Joseph A. Caprini M.D., M.S., FACS, RVT (Louis W. Biegler Professor of Surgery)

  2. The University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA

    Joseph A. Caprini M.D., M.S., FACS, RVT (Louis W. Biegler Professor of Surgery)

  3. Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA

    Michael J. Verta M.D.

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  1. Joseph A. Caprini M.D., M.S., FACS, RVT
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Correspondence to Joseph A. Caprini M.D., M.S., FACS, RVT .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. PARK AVENUE 911, NEW YORK, 10021, New York, USA

    Neil S. Sadick

  2. College of Physicians and Surgeons, Radiology, Columbia University, New York, 10032, New York, USA

    Neil Khilnani

  3. Morrison Vein Institute, Tempe, 85282, Arizona, USA

    Nick Morrison

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Caprini, J.A., Verta, M.J. (2013). Superficial Vein Thrombosis. In: Sadick, N., Khilnani, N., Morrison, N. (eds) Practical Approach to the Management and Treatment of Venous Disorders. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-2891-5_15

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