Management of Short Saphenous Vein Thrombosis Close to the Saphenopopliteal Junction: A Survey of the Membership of HaemSTAR, British Society for Haemostasis and Thrombosis and VTE Exemplar Centres in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Introduction

The optimal management of superficial thrombophlebitis (STP) close to the saphenopopliteal junction (SPJ) is not known.

Methods

We conducted an online survey of members of the HaemSTAR network, British society of haemostasis and thrombosis and UK VTE exemplar network over a 6-week period.

Results

Fifty-three respondents participated in the survey (estimated 22% response rate). Note that 89% of respondents indicated they would manage all STP at the SPJ with anticoagulation, with 70% indicating they would offer 3 months of therapeutic anticoagulation. The most common threshold for instigating anticoagulation was being within 3 cm off the SPJ (68%). Factors most associated with the decision to anticoagulate included previous thrombosis, active malignancy, persistent immobilisation and severe symptoms (with hospitalisation, hyperestrogenaemic states, thrombophilia and recent surgery being additionally identified in the non-treatment group).

Conclusion

Despite lack of evidence, most UK practitioners surveyed offered intermediate to treatment doses of anticoagulation in the case of STP within 3 cm of the SPJ. Further research is needed to assess the validity of this approach.

Trial Registration

The authors have confirmed clinical trial registration is not needed for this submission.