A Retrospective Follow-up Study of Patients with Suspected Deep Vein Thrombosis and Negative Results of Colour Duplex Ultrasound

Abstract

Objective:

Investigation of the frequency of symptomatic venous thromboembolic disease 3 months after negative results of colour duplex ultrasound investigation of the lower extremities in patients with suspected deep venous thrombosis (DVT).

Design:

Retrospective analyses of consecutive ultrasound investigations and a survey in patients with normal findings.

Setting:

Patients were investigated at two clinical vascular laboratories in teaching hospitals.

Main outcome measures:

Objective verification of symptomatic venous thromboembolism during 3 months follow-up by a questionnaire and retrospective analyses of diagnostic procedures for venous thromboembolism.

Results:

Eighty-seven per cent answered a questionnaire and the majority had temporary symptoms which were explained by other diagnoses than DVT. In one patient a DVT was phlebographically verified 1 week after the ultrasonographic investigation, which showed only superficial thrombophlebitis.

Conclusion:

Patients with suspected DVT and a negative colour duplex investigation of the deep veins are unlikely to develop clinically important venous thromboembolic disease within 3 months.