Limited Compression Ultrasound by Emergency Physicians to Exclude Deep Vein Thrombosis

Can Emergency Physicians Safely Exclude Proximal Deep Vein Thrombosis Using Limited Compression Emergency Department Ultrasound?

Deep vein thrombosis is a common condition seen in the Emergency Department. Standard of care for diagnosis of DVT includes a combination of a clinical pre-test probability rule known as Well's criteria, D-dimer blood testing, and Radiology department ultrasound.

The purpose of this study is to determine whether Emergency Physicians can safely rule out deep vein thrombosis using Well's criteria and D-dimer blood testing combined with Emergency department bedside ultrasound.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Age > 16 years
• Clinically suspected lower extremity DVT

Exclusion Criteria:

• Known chronic DVT
• Acute DVT confirmed by prior formal imaging
• Inability to assess common femoral or popliteal area (due to cast, above knee amputation, etc.)
• Anticoagulation >48 hours prior to imaging (formal or LCU)