Summary

Clinical features, diagnostics and therapy of the different appearances of superficial thrombophlebitis are discussed. The basic therapy has not changed. Changed have the evaluation of the prognosis and the requirements concerning adequate diagnostics. The thrombus formation in the greater and in the short saphenous vein may extend more proximal than the clinical symptoms of inflammation, with the risk of saphenous-femoral thromboembolism. The coincidence of superficial thrombophlebitis and deep vein thrombosis lies between 10 and 40%. This means the need of repeated duplex scanning if necessary. According to the therapy beside compression, a role of low molecular weight heparin is generally accepted, but not sufficiently defined. As duration of heparin therapy one month is suggested. The indication for surgical interventions needs further clarifying. The superficial thrombophlebitis bears a relevant risk of complications and needs careful examination and therapy.