Other Treatment Issues
Early ambulation poses no risk for clot propagation and is encouraged; it may even reduce the risk of post-thrombotic complications.
Most patients are suitable for outpatient treatment. A recent Cochrane review14 suggested there is no difference in long-term outcome in those patients treated at home compared to those treated in hospital. It would however be prudent to initially admit those with a large proximal clot burden (extending up into the iliac veins), those who are at higher risk of bleeding, those in poor social circumstances, and those that may not be reliable in self-medicating.
Learning bite
The vast majority of patients with suspected or proven DVT can be investigated and managed as an out-patient.