Current Trends in the Management of Acute Deep Vein Thrombosis among Korean Vascular Surgeons

PURPOSE: Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common life-threatening illness with significant morbidity and mortality rates. In recent years, the incidence of VTE has gradually increased in Korea. In this study, we evaluated the current trends in the management of acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A 20-item questionnaire was prepared and sent to 48 members of the Korean Society for Vascular Surgery. Each member worked in a different hospital. Twenty-two members participated in this study. RESULTS: The vascular surgery departments were primarily responsible for managing DVT. Ultrasound and computed tomography (CT) venography were chosen as the most common initial diagnostic tools. Eighty-two percent of participants routinely used the coagulation factor assay. Thrombolysis and inferior vena cava (IVC) filter insertion were performed mainly in the radiology departments. Seventy-seven percent of participants performed thrombolysis only if the thrombus age was less than 21 days. During thrombolysis, IVC filter was routinely inserted by 50% of respondents and removed within 14 days by 64% of respondents. Nearly all participants followed the 2012 American College of Chest Physicians guidelines for anticoagulation therapy. CONCLUSION: The majority of Korean vascular surgeons followed the guidelines. However, CT was frequently used. Thrombolysis and IVC filter insertion were more frequently performed than recommended by the guidelines.