Chronic complications of venous thromboembolism

Summary Venous thromboembolism ( VTE ) is a common disease (~700 per 100 000) that is associated with significant risk of recurrence, chronic complications, and substantial mortality, with reported death rates of up to 40% at 10 years. The development of novel anticoagulants has revolutionized the treatment of acute VTE , while strategies for prevention and treatment of chronic complications still seek for such a landmark change. Impaired thrombus resolution is the common denominator behind VTE complications, which are postthrombotic syndrome ( PTS ) and chronic thromboembolic pulmonary hypertension ( CTEPH ). PTS and CTEPH are associated with substantial morbidity and high healthcare expenses. While PTS occurs in up to 50% of patients after symptomatic deep vein thrombosis, only a small and poorly defined number of patients are diagnosed with CTEPH after pulmonary embolism. This review is a comprehensive summary of VTE ‐related chronic complications, their epidemiology, diagnosis, and treatment.