Superficial thrombophlebitis

Question 1

What is superficial thrombophlebitis?

Answer 1

Erythema, induration and tenderness along the superficial vein. Usually spontaneous (may follow cannulation).
Most common in greater saphenous vein and its tributaries.

Question 2

Aetiology of superficial thrombophlebitis?

Answer 2

• Infectious: suppurative phlebitis (AEx cannulation)
• Trauma
• Inflammatory: varicose veins, Buerger’s disease, SLE
• Haematologic: polycythemia, thrombocytosis
• Neoplastic: occult malignancy (esp pancreatic)
• Idiopathic

Question 3

CFx superficial thrombophlebitis?

Answer 3

Pain and cord like swelling along course of vein.

Question 4

Ix superficial thrombophleibits?

Answer 4

Doppler (exclude DVT)

Question 5

Conservative Rx superficial thrombophlebitis?

Answer 5

-Conservative: moist heat, compression bandages, mild analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti platelet (e.g. ASA), LMWH, ambulation.

Question 6

Surgical Mx superficial thrombophlebitis?

Answer 6

Surgical excision of involved vein.

Indication: failure of conservative measures.