Abstrakt

The changing role of thrombolytic therapy in the management of acute deep vein thrombosis

Mahmood K Razavi and Charles P Semba

Endovascular therapy for lower extremity venous obstruction is emerging as a viable adjunct to anticoagulation in selected patients with acute and chronic deep vein thrombosis. While the standard of care for deep vein thrombosis remains centered upon heparinoids and warfarin therapy, there is growing evidence to support early intervention with thrombolysis to preserve valve function and restore patency of the vein. The focus of this review is to provide an overview of endovascular techniques for the treatment of acute lower extremity deep vein thrombosis as an adjunct to routine anticoagulation.