Journal of vascular surgery. Venous and lymphatic disorders
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J Vasc Surg Venous Lymphat Disord · Jan 2013
Isolated calf muscular vein thrombosis is associated with pulmonary embolism and a high incidence of additional ipsilateral and contralateral deep venous thrombosis.
Little is known about the natural history of isolated gastrocnemial and soleal vein thrombosis (IGSVT), and recommendations for treatment and follow-up are therefore anecdotal. This study sought to determine the rates of venous thromboembolism (VTE) progression and resolution and the effect of antithrombotic therapy in patients with IGSVT. ⋯ Isolated calf muscular vein thrombosis is associated with PE and a significant incidence of VTE progression. Therapeutic anticoagulation is associated with DVT resolution, but its effect on VTE recurrence was not demonstrated. Untreated patients with IGSVT should receive follow-up bilateral lower extremity venous duplex scans within 10 days of diagnosis.