Consensus Statement on Chronic Thromboembolic Disease, Prophylaxis and Special Situations / Abridged Version

Abstract

Chronic thromboembolic disease refers to a set of conditions that manifest over time after acute pulmonary embolism (PE). In most cases, this episode is associated with acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT). These conditions include chronic pulmonary thromboembolic hypertension (CTEPH), post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS) and chronic venous insufficiency (CVI). (1) A timely diagnosis and treatment may modify the prognosis of this entity during the course of its free progression. (2) Damage caused by DVT may lead to valve dysfunction in the deep venous system. (3) Both CTEPH, PTS and CVI are associated with gradual impairment in the quality of life of those affected. Hence, it is important to postulate prophylaxis strategies in a patient at risk of suffering from a DVT-PE event.