Published online Feb 4, 2015. doi: 10.5492/wjccm.v4.i1.29
Peer-review started: October 10, 2014
First decision: October 11, 2014
Revised: October 11, 2014
Accepted: November 7, 2014
Article in press: November 10, 2014
Published online: February 4, 2015
Core tip: A novel clinical concept for the assessment of acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and the post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) by DUS in routine clinical practice at 1, 3 to 6 mo and at one year post-DVT will separates post-DVT patients in 4 groups: Group 1: rapid complete recanalization within 3 mo, no reflux at 6 mo post-DVT, and no PTS for which anticoagulation and medical elastic compression stockings (MECS) can be discontinued at 6 mo post-DVT. Group 2, no PTS with reflux of the deep venous system and no PTS at 6 months post-DVT when when wearing MECS for which anticoagulation should be continued until re-evaluation at 1 year post DVT. Group 3 and 4 PTS with reflux and incomplete recanalization or obstruction at 6-12 mo post-DVT are candidates for long-term anticoagulation and MECS for at least 2 years or even longer to prevent DVT recurrence to prevent progression of PTS. A large scale prospective study is warranted to fine-tune and prove this concept.