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Provoked DVT duration — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModerateAmbulatory Medicine / Primary CareProvoked DVT durationUSMLE Step 3

A 57-year-old woman returns after a first proximal DVT 10 days after knee replacement. She is taking apixaban, has no cancer or bleeding, and swelling is improving. She asks how long anticoagulation is needed. Which of the following would you recommend at the follow-up visit?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: A — Continue anticoagulation for 3 months

A first surgery-provoked proximal DVT is usually treated with therapeutic anticoagulation for 3 months.

Reference: Current US clinical practice standards and USMLE Step 3 content outline, https://www.usmle.org/exam-resources/step-3-materials