| Article ID | Journal | Published Year | Pages | File Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3028744 | Thrombosis Research | 2006 | 7 Pages |
ObjectiveWe aimed at determining whether a negative single complete compression ultrasonography (CUS) of the lower limbs veins is a safe and accurate diagnostic method to rule out the diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis in pregnant and early postpartum women.DesignHospital-based retrospective study.SettingThe gynaecology and vascular ultrasound units of three general hospitals in western France.PatientsWe identified from the hospitals databases all pregnant or up to three months postpartum women who underwent CUS for a suspicion of deep venous thrombosis between January 2002 and December 2004.MethodsQuestionnaires were sent to all women with a negative CUS. Their medical records were also checked.Main outcome measuresWe assessed the three-month thromboembolic risk and its 95% percent confidence interval in women left untreated on the basis of a negative single complete CUS of the lower limbs.ResultsDuring the study period, 162 pregnant or postpartum women underwent CUS for a suspicion of deep venous thrombosis. It was positive in 44 (27%). The 118 women who had a negative CUS were sent the questionnaire. Information about the three-month follow-up was found for 107 patients (91%). None of them experienced a thromboembolic event during follow-up: 0.0% (95% CI: 0.0–3.6).ConclusionsSingle complete CUS of lower limbs veins appears to be a safe method to rule out the diagnosis of deep venous thrombosis in pregnant or early postpartum women. This has to be confirmed by a prospective management study with a formal follow-up.
