Septic deep vein thrombosis

Anticoagulation is the cornerstone in the treatment of deep vein thrombosis. However, the treatment of septic deep vein thrombosis is controversial. Unlike septic superficial vein thrombosis, venous excision is often associated with limb-threatening or even life-threatening complications. Some authors have suggested thrombectomy as the only means of resolving the sepsis. We reviewed our experience with seven patients who had septic deep vein thrombosis. Phlebography or noninvasive studies documented deep vein thrombosis and blood cultures were positive in all patients. The mean age was 31.5 years with a male/female ratio of 5:2. All patients were treated with anticoagulants and intravenous antibiotics. One patient required surgical exploration for associated abscess of the groin. The patients became afebrile with normal white blood cell counts from 3 to 18 days after therapy was begun. No cases of recurrent sepsis occurred. We conclude that antibiotic therapy and anticoagulation are adequate treatment and therefore consider venous thrombectomy unnecessary.