Emergency Medicine Free

Wells Criteria for DVT

Risk stratification for deep vein thrombosis.

Enter Values

Active Cancer

Paralysis/Paresis/Immobilization of Lower Extremity

Bedridden >3 days or Major Surgery (past 12 weeks)

Localized Tenderness Along Deep Venous System

Entire Leg Swelling

Calf Swelling >3cm vs Other Side

Pitting Edema (affected side)

Collateral Superficial Veins

Previously Documented DVT

Alternative Diagnosis at Least as Likely

Score

Author Philip S. Wells et al.

First Published 1997

Evidence Guideline-endorsed

Category Emergency Medicine

Original Study Value of assessment of pretest probability of deep-vein thrombosis in clinical management (Lancet, 1997)

About Wells Criteria for DVT stratifies patients into low, moderate, or high probability, guiding use of D-dimer and compression ultrasound.

Clinical Use Adults with suspected first DVT. Recurrent DVT may require different pathways.