Deep vein thrombosis resolution, recurrence and post-thrombotic syndrome: a prospective observational study protocol

BACKGROUND: Reasons for the variation in response of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) to anticoagulation treatment are not known. Some patients develop complications such as post-thrombotic syndrome or recurrent DVT but others make a full recovery. The aim of the study is to identify the level of variation in response to anticoagulation treatment and provide more precise and quantitative disease characterisation in response to treatment. METHODS: A prospective observational study using duplex ultrasound to examine changes in thrombus characterisation, evolution and resolution over a 2 year period in patients with a confirmed DVT. Logistic regression analysis will be used to seek associations between characteristics present at baseline and the outcomes of DVT resolution, recurrence and the development of post-thrombotic syndrome (PTS). DISCUSSION: This research into the response to treatment of lower limb DVT and predictive factors for DVT resolution, recurrence and PTS could inform a more tailored approach to anticoagulation therapy for the future management of DVT. UKCRN ID: 16016. Registered on 20 January 2014.