Virtual risk assessment pathway for deep venous thrombosis: a preliminary model

Abstract

BackgroundCOVID-19 has necessitated the reduction in conventional face-to-face patient consultation to reduce the risk of novel coronavirus SARS-CoV-2 transmission. Traditional pathways to risk assess for deep venous thrombosis (DVT) would involve face-to-face assessment to formulate an appropriate management plan following an initial presentation usually in secondary care or in-hospital settings. Appropriate antithrombotic measures can prevent complication of DVT such as pulmonary embolism with prompt early diagnosis and treatment.MethodsThis observational, pilot study evaluates the possibility of combining telemedicine technology and a virtual examination pathway for remote triage and assessment of patients with suspected DVT.ResultsPiloting and development of a virtual risk assessment pathway for DVT involves various challenges and multidisciplinary co-ordination.ConclusionAdvances in telecommunication technology can enable clinicians, specialist nurses and hospital departments to develop a virtual examination pathway for remote triage and assessment of patients with suspected DVT. This pathway is not a replacement for conventional ‘face-to-face’ evaluation, but we believe the template can be explored and refined to act as a blueprint for future applications even when the pandemic has stabilised.