Abstract
Superficial vein thrombosis (SVT) is a common clinical condition that carries with it significant risk of propagation of thrombus, recurrence, and, most concerning, subsequent venous thromboembolism (VTE). Conservative therapy with nonsteroidal antiinflammatory medication and heat does not prevent extension of thrombus or protect against recurrent or future VTE in patients with extensive SVT thrombotic segment of at least 5 cm in length. To prevent future thromboembolic events, anticoagulation has become the treatment of choice for extensive SVT. The aim of the review was to provide evidence-based, up-to-date information on the epidemiology, risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with SVT. A comprehensive literature search was conducted to identify all randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that addressed the epidemiology and treatment of SVT. RCT publications were identified using the MEDLINE database of English-language medical literature from 2002 to February 2025. The key search terms used were superficial vein thrombosis, treatment of superficial vein thrombosis, medical and surgical treatment of SVT. The search was performed using both single and combinations of terms.