Variability in the Management of Superficial Venous Thrombophlebitis across Practitioners Based in North America and the Global Community

Abstract

Introduction . This study aimed to compare management patterns of patients with SVT among healthcare practitioners based in North America versus those in the global community. Methods . A 17-question, multiple choice survey with questions regarding SVT diagnosis and management strategies was provided to practitioners who attended the American Venous Forum (AVF) meeting in 2011. Results . There were 487 practitioners surveyed with 365 classified as North American (US or Canada) and 122 (56 Europe, 25 Asia, 11 South America, and 7 Africa) representing the global community. The key difference seen between the groups was in the initial imaging study used in patients presenting with SVT ( P = 0.046 ) and physicians in the US ordered fewer bilateral duplex ultrasounds and more unilateral duplex ultrasounds (49.6% versus 58.2%, 39.7% versus 34.4%). In the US cohort, phlebologists and vascular surgeons constituted 82% ( n = 300 ) of the specialties surveyed. In the global community, SVT was managed by phlebologists or vascular surgeons 44% ( n = 54 ) of the time. Surgical management was highly variable between groups. Conclusion . There is currently no consensus between or among practitioners in North America or globally as to the surgical management of SVT, duration of follow-up, and anticoagulation parameters.