Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The optimal management of superficial thrombophlebitis (STP) close to the saphenopopliteal junction (SPJ) is not known. METHODS: We conducted an online survey of members of the HaemSTAR network, British society of haemostasis and thrombosis and UK VTE exemplar network over a 6-week period. RESULTS: Fifty-three respondents participated in the survey (estimated 22% response rate). Note that 89% of respondents indicated they would manage all STP at the SPJ with anticoagulation, with 70% indicating they would offer 3 months of therapeutic anticoagulation. The most common threshold for instigating anticoagulation was being within 3 cm off the SPJ (68%). Factors most associated with the decision to anticoagulate included previous thrombosis, active malignancy, persistent immobilisation and severe symptoms (with hospitalisation, hyperestrogenaemic states, thrombophilia and recent surgery being additionally identified in the non-treatment group). CONCLUSION: Despite lack of evidence, most UK practitioners surveyed offered intermediate to treatment doses of anticoagulation in the case of STP within 3 cm of the SPJ. Further research is needed to assess the validity of this approach. TRIAL REGISTRATION: The authors have confirmed clinical trial registration is not needed for this submission.