Low-risk superficial vein thrombosis

An isolated superficial vein thrombosis is at low risk of extension to a proximal DVT or PE if it:

• occurs as a complication of intravenous cannulation
• is located more than 3 cm from the deep venous system and is shorter than 5 cm (and the patient has no other VTE risk factors).

Patients with an isolated low-risk superficial vein thrombosis do not require anticoagulant therapy. Provide symptomatic care with topical or oral NSAID therapy for 7 to 14 daysThrombosis Canada, 2021. Optimise VTE prophylaxis in any situation predisposing to VTE (eg hospitalised patients).