Diagnosis of post-thrombotic syndrome: International union of phlebology (UIP) survey of medical specialists

To review the current approaches to the diagnosis of Post-Thrombotic Syndrome (PTS) and to evaluate the potential need for a diagnostic tool.

Medical specialists were invited to participate in an online survey of their current approaches to the diagnosis and management of PTS, including the use of scoring systems, diagnostic imaging techniques and the extent the practitioner reviews the patient’s venous history.

502 participants completed the survey. Over 80% obtained imaging reports to confirm a history of deep vein thrombosis (DVT). 72% of participants always obtained an up-to-date duplex ultrasound for PTS diagnosis. Over 50% did not use a scoring system for either PTS diagnosis or management. 65% of the participants agreed that a new system for PTS diagnosis should be devised.

Heterogeneity was observed in methods of diagnosing PTS by medical practitioners with frequent use of medical imaging studies and moderate use of scoring systems. Development of a new diagnostic tool for PTS should be considered for future studies.