Evaluation of stability of deep venous thrombosis of the lower extremities using Doppler ultrasound

Objective: This study aimed to assess using Doppler ultrasound for analyzing stability of deep venous thrombosis (DVT) of the lower extremities.

Methods: Patients with DVT of the lower extremities who were treated from August 2017 to December 2019 were selected. The patients were divided into stable and unstable groups according to whether thrombus was collected in a filter. Related ultrasound and blood test results were analyzed and compared.

Results: A total of 126 patients with DVT of the lower extremities were included, of whom 74 were in the stable group and 52 were in the unstable group. There were significant differences in the prothrombin time (PT), and lipoprotein alpha, D-dimer, and triglyceride levels between the groups. D-dimer levels >2800 ug/L, smoking, history of venous thrombosis, PT >13.15 s, and body mass index >24.45 kg/m² were independent risk factors for stability of DVT of the lower extremities. The area under the curve with combined detection of DVT was significantly higher than that for body mass index, PT, and D-dimer alone.

Conclusion: Doppler ultrasound may be reliable for analyzing the stability of DVT of the lower extremities. Related strategies targeting risk factors are required for reducing DVT of the lower extremities.

Keywords: D-dimer; Ultrasound; body mass index; deep venous thrombosis; lower extremity; prothrombin time.