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Provoked DVT Duration — RACP Adult Medicine MCQ

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EasyHaematologyProvoked DVT DurationRACP Adult Medicine

A 30-year-old woman presents with a painful, swollen right calf after a long-haul flight. Doppler ultrasound confirms a proximal DVT. She is otherwise healthy with no prior VTE and no family history. She takes the combined oral contraceptive pill. According to current guidelines, what duration of anticoagulation is recommended?

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Correct answer: E — 3 months

This is a provoked DVT (OCP use is a major reversible risk factor). For provoked proximal DVT, the recommended duration of anticoagulation is 3 months (minimum). The OCP should be permanently ceased as it is a strong risk factor for recurrent VTE. An alternative non-oestrogen-containing contraceptive (e.g. progesterone-only methods, copper IUD) should be advised. Extended anticoagulation beyond 3 months is NOT recommended for provoked VTE once the provoking factor is removed.

Reference: eTG – 2025 – Haematology; ISTH – 2023 – VTE Duration Guidelines