Diagnostic strategies in deep venous thrombosis

The modalities to diagnose deep venous thrombosis (DVT) have improved substantially over the past decade. The contemporary diagnostic approach has shifted to an algorithm that includes the combination of clinical pre-test probability, non-invasive imaging, and Ddimer testing. Such algorithms are not only focused on accurate diagnosis of DVT but on identification of low-risk patients who do not need antithrombotic therapy. This article reviews the various diagnostic tests and their incorporation into a useful diagnostic algorithm.