Superficial vein
thrombosis is characterized by clotting of superficial veins (ie, following direct
trauma) with minimal inflammatory components. Superficial
thrombophlebitis is a minimally thrombotic process of superficial veins associated with inflammatory changes and/or
infection. Treatments generally include
analgesics, elastic compression,
anti-inflammatory agents, exercise and ambulation, and, in some cases, local or systemic
anticoagulants. It is better to avoid
bed rest and reduced mobility. Topical
analgesia with nonsteroidal, anti-inflammatory creams applied locally to the superficial vein
thrombosis/superficial
thrombophlebitis area controls symptoms.
Hirudoid cream (
heparinoid) shortens the duration of signs/symptoms. Locally acting
anticoagulants/antithrombotics (Viatromb, Lipohep, spray Na-
heparin) have positive effects on
pain and on the reduction in
thrombus size. Intravenous
catheters should be changed every 24 to 48 hours (depending on venous flow and clinical parameters) to prevent superficial vein
thrombosis/superficial
thrombophlebitis and removed in case of events.
Low molecular weight heparin prophylaxis and
nitroglycerin patches distal to peripheral lines may reduce the incidence of superficial vein
thrombosis/superficial
thrombophlebitis in patients with vein
catheters. In case of superficial vein
thrombosis/superficial
thrombophlebitis, vein lines should be removed. In neoplastic diseases and hematological disorders,
anticoagulants may be necessary. Exercise reduces
pain and the possibility of
deep vein thrombosis. Only in cases in which
pain is very severe is
bed rest necessary.
Deep vein thrombosis prophylaxis should be established in patients with reduced mobility.
Antibiotics usually do not have a place in superficial vein
thrombosis/superficial
thrombophlebitis unless there are documented
infections. Prevention of superficial vein
thrombosis should be considered on the basis of patient's history and clinical evaluation.