From the Research
The incidence of bilateral lower extremity deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is approximately 19.3% of all DVT cases, as reported in a study published in 2009 1.
Incidence and Risk Factors
The incidence of bilateral DVT can vary depending on the population and risk factors present.
- A study published in 2009 found that 19.3% of patients with DVT had bilateral disease 1.
- Another study published in 2020 reported that the incidence rates for lower extremity DVT range from 88 to 112 per 100,000 person-years, but did not specifically report on bilateral DVT incidence 2.
Risk Factors
Certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing bilateral DVT, including:
- Active human immunodeficiency virus disease
- Iliofemoral thrombosis
- Malignancy
- Prolonged immobilization
- Major surgery
- Inherited thrombophilias
Diagnosis and Treatment
Bilateral DVTs require careful evaluation and treatment to prevent complications such as pulmonary embolism and post-thrombotic syndrome.
- Standard anticoagulation therapy is usually recommended, with options including low molecular weight heparin (such as enoxaparin) or direct oral anticoagulants (such as rivaroxaban) 2, 3.
- Treatment duration is generally 3-6 months for provoked DVTs and may be indefinite for unprovoked cases or those with ongoing risk factors.
- Catheter-directed thrombolysis may be considered in select cases with severe symptoms or high risk of complications 4.