Thromboses Veineuses Superficielles des Membres Inférieurs : aux limites des indications thérapeutiques

Abstract

Superficial Thrombophlebitis (ST) of the lower limbs
should not be considered as a simple complication in the
course of varicose vein disease.
Recent publications allow better understanding of ST. We
have to distinguish ST occurring in non varicose veins and
those occurring in varicose veins.
The analysis of the literature shows that a deep vein
thrombosis combined with ST is identified in average on
29% of patients assessed with Duplex Ultrasound examination. This figure is confirmed by two series including a high
number of patients.
The rate of pulmonary embolism is 4% on average.
Regarding the treatment, current recommendations have
only a low grade (2B). They suggest, for patients with spontaneous ST, prophylactic or intermediate doses of heparin
for at least 4 weeks. Less extensive ST does not require
treatment with anticoagulant. Elastic compression stocking
and walking are also recommended.