The Postthrombotic Syndrome: A Practical Overview.

Postthrombotic syndrome (PTS) is a common, progressive form of chronic venous disease (CVD) with an incidence of up to 70% at 10 years following deep vein thrombosis (DVT). PTS is a clinical diagnosis with patients exhibiting signs and symptoms common to other CVD. Severe symptoms, including venous leg ulcers, are identified in up to 5% of patients. Understanding the diagnosis, pathophysiology, and diagnostic testing affords the provider the opportunity to educate the patient and provide optimal longitudinal care for this disease. Prevention of PTS begins with preventing DVT in patients. Compression stockings and lifestyle modification are the mainstays of treatment.