Effectiveness of an algorithm in reducing the number of unnecessary ultrasound scans for deep vein thrombosis: an evaluation report.

Introduction: Patients with suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT) pose a diagnostic dilemma to the Emergency Department (ED) clinician. This study aimed to implement a known algorithm incorporating the modified Wells criteria and D-dimer testing to guide the ED clinician, thus reducing unnecessary ultrasound scans (USS).

Methods: Patients who presented to the ED between August 2008 and April 2009 with suspected DVT underwent Wells scoring.