title: The disparate management of superficial venous thrombosis in primary and secondary care.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  Superficial venous thrombosis is common and traditionally considered a benign condition requiring only symptomatic treatment. Recent evidence, however, advocates more aggressive management. Extensive guidance is available but actual practice is unknown. This study aimed to assess the management of superficial venous thrombosis by general practitioners (primary care physicians) and vascular surgeons.
  
  
  METHODS
  A 19-question validated electronic survey was created and circulated by e-mail to general practitioners and vascular surgeons in the United Kingdom. The survey evaluated presentation, investigation and treatment of superficial venous thrombosis.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Three hundred sixty-nine surveys were returned from 197 vascular surgeons and 172 general practitioners. Most clinicians saw less than 20 cases a year, with 40% of clinicians not performing any investigations. Venous duplex was the investigation of choice in over 55%. Treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs was widespread, but anticoagulation and compression were seldom prescribed. Follow-up and treatment duration were disparate.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The management of superficial venous thrombosis varies widely despite good levels of evidence and guidance. Investigation and treatment of superficial venous thrombosis show marked differences both between and within groups. Improvements in education are required to optimise the treatment pathway and advance patient care.
authors: Academic Section of Vascular Surgery, Imperial College London, UK Tristan.lane@imperial.ac.uk.
authors: Tristan R A
authors: TR
authors: Lane
authors: Academic Section of Vascular Surgery, Imperial College London, UK.
authors: Kaji
authors: K
authors: Sritharan
authors: Department of Primary Care and Public Health Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, UK.
authors: J Rosalind
authors: JR
authors: Herbert
authors: Academic Section of Vascular Surgery, Imperial College London, UK.
authors: Ian J
authors: IJ
authors: Franklin
authors: Academic Section of Vascular Surgery, Imperial College London, UK.
authors: Alun H
authors: AH
authors: Davies
mesh_terms: D004502:Education, Medical, Continuing; D004739:England; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D011320:Primary Health Care; D063127:Secondary Health Care; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D020246:Venous Thrombosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000628:therapy*
keywords: Superficial venous disease; primary care; secondary care; venous thromboembolism