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Canadian Journal of Surgery logoLink to Canadian Journal of Surgery
. 1998 Feb;41(1):13–25.

Management of subclavian-axillary vein thrombosis: a review

Gary J Hicken 1, F Michael Ameli 1,
PMCID: PMC3950057  PMID: 9492744

Abstract

Objective

To study, by literature review, the management of subclavian-axillary vein thrombosis (SAVT) and to make recommendations.

Data sources

The MEDLINE database and cross-referenced articles.

Study selection

Key words subclavian-axillary vein thrombosis, venous thrombosis, Paget–Schroetter syndrome, anticoagulation, and thrombolysis were used to extract articles related to SAVT.

Data extraction

Independent extraction of articles by 2 observers.

Data synthesis

Although numerous studies are available in the literature, they vary widely in their patient selection, treatment methods, follow-up and conclusions. As such, the management of patients with SAVT remains controversial.

Conclusions

Anticoagulation remains the initial treatment of choice for acute SAVT although there is definitely a role for thrombolysis and surgery in selected cases. Surgical intervention should be reserved for patients in whom there is a specific indication. Since chronic symptoms depend largely on the etiology of the disease, treatment should be tailored to address the causative factors. A multicentre, prospective study is necessary to evaluate the optimum management strategies for patients with SAVT.

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