Ambulant therapy for deep vein thrombosis and the value of compression

摘要

For patients with acute deep vein thrombosis, studies have shown a better clinical outcome with walking exercises under good compression than with bed rest. Repeated lung scans did not show an increased risk of new pulmonary embolism. There was a faster and more intense reduction of pain and swelling and a clear quality of life benefit. Immediate ambulation with compression reduces the propagation of thrombi and has a positive impact on the development of a post-phlebitic syndrome. Patients selected for home therapy should not only be instructed on how to inject their therapeutic dose of low molecular weight heparin but should also be educated to walk around with good compression. Modern anti-thrombotic management of mobile patients with acute venous thrombosis should include low molecular weight heparin and immediate ambulation in conjunction with appropriate compression therapy.