Duplex Surveillance of Superficial Thrombophlebitis

Abstract

Clinical management of superficial thrombophlebitis has been guided by the assumption that this lesion is self-limited and rarely progresses to serious sequelae. This study eluci dates the fact that this lesion is frequently associated with deep venous thrombosis and potential pulmonary embolism. Accurate diagnosis requires the use of duplex scanning, and an appreciation of the natural history of this problem is essential to recommend treatment.