Overview of VTE

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) refers to a blood clot that starts in a vein. The term VTE encompasses a wide spectrum of thromboembolic conditions, ranging from distal deep vein thrombosis (DVT), through proximal DVT to fatal pulmonary embolism (PE). Superficial vein thrombosis occurs when a thrombus forms in a superficial vein and causes inflammation of the vessel wall; approximately 25% of patients diagnosed with superficial vein thrombosis have a concomitant DVTThrombosis Canada, 2021.

VTE can lead to serious adverse outcomes, including increased risk of recurrent thrombosis, morbidity from post-thrombotic syndrome or death. DVT is also associated with the development of PE. Most deaths from PE occur either before the pulmonary embolus has been diagnosed or before intervention has been started.

These consequences of VTE formation highlight the importance of VTE prophylaxis and treatment.